https://www.youtube.com/@AbeerAlBatal

Syria is characterized by its richness, cultural diversity, and civilization spanning hundreds and thousands of years, particularly in Christian ecclesiastical heritage. Syria has been a meeting place for various civilizations, especially those traveling to the Holy Land.

The church heritage, especially church music in Syria, is one of the oldest, most ancient, and most diverse rituals globally. Antioch, the first Christian center in the region, played a crucial role in the development of Christian traditions. Throughout history, patriarchates were established as institutions of monasteries, monks, and saints who became important organizers of praise, and worship, and writers of numerous hymns.

Performers of hymns in the region wrote prayers in languages spoken at the time, including Syriac, from which the Syriac and Maronite rites emerged. In Mesopotamia, the East Syriac language spread with its Chaldean, Assyrian, and Assyrian dialects in the "Assyrian Church of the East," "Chaldean Church," and "Eastern Church."

The Syriac language, spoken by the people, influenced the hymns of various churches. The Byzantine rule brought the Greek language to prominence, influencing the Melkite Church to write hymns in Greek. Saint John of Damascus composed melodies in the Byzantine rite, contributing to what can be considered Syrian Byzantine music.

Armenian civilization had a significant presence in the region. Armenians made pilgrimages to Jerusalem, passing through Syria. The Armenians built resting points, such as "Hokedoun" in Aleppo, and established the Cathedral of the Forty Martyrs in the sixth century. The Kingdom of Cilicia appeared in northern Syria until the Ottoman occupation, leading to the establishment of Armenian churches, schools, and institutions in Syria.

The concert aims to spread and revive this rich heritage, showcasing the musical traditions that have developed over centuries in Syria.