In 2016, the young Syrian violinist, Rami Basisah was photographed playing his violin at the Greek Macedonian border, having made his way there from his native war-torn Syria. He later crossed the Mediterranean Sea with his violin in a dinghy. The boat capsized three times but Rami had wrapped his violin in plastic and swam with it on his back to safety. He eventually made his way to Germany where has now started a new life - with his violin.
His debut album "My Journey" is out on Decca Records. It was produced and orchestrated by Morgan Pochin who also wrote an original piece for him, Elegy for a Lost Nation, which has been receiving airplay on Classic FM, who featured the disc as their Album of the Week in May 2017. Elegy for a Lost Nation is now available to buy here in a version for violin and piano. The version for violin and orchestra can be hired from Faber Music Ltd (hire@fabermusic.com).
Find out more about Rami’s incredible journey here: