Hope for a Tree: Sheldonian Concert in support of Syria
So before I say anything, let me officially wish everyone a happy 2016! There is often a sense of anticipation and expectation at the beginning of any new year and for me, it is no different this year. Some celebrated with fireworks and lots of partying, while others greeted it with great anxiety, their life situation so far from what we call a 'normal' life, a home, shelter, safety - the basics. In conversations with many of my friends regarding the situation in Syria and the vast amounts of refugees flowing into Europe, the general question that arises is: what can we do? Can we help, and if so, how? It often feels as though even a small effort on our part will still not change the larger problems in the world that contribute to human suffering, and so it is easy to become disheartened before we begin. But this got me thinking.
I recently released my first solo album - Hope for a Tree - and after the debut concert, the opportunity arose to take my music troupe with me to Oxford and perform at the lovely Sheldonian theatre. And while it is not a novelty to combine music with a humanitarian cause, it is at least a small way in which my friends and I can spread the message of hope which is sorely needed these days. So on Saturday evening, 30 January you will find me at the Sheldonian, I will be sharing with you the stories behind my music, both in terms of content and the process of composing. You will get to hear new music performed by some fantastic singers and best of all, every ticket you buy will help Syrians who are struggling - ADRA France works with refugees in France while Hand in Hand for Syria works exclusively in Syria. So I hope you will join us at the end of the month! The more the merrier - the more tickets sold, the more support we can give to people who are dedicating their time, energy and resources to helping our fellow human beings in need.
If you are not familiar with #hopeforatree and would like a preview of the music you can listen to a few songs on YouTube
or if you are ready to go ahead, click on the following link to buy your ticket. See you there! Tickets: Hope for a Tree- Oxford 30 Jan