Musician’s dismay over Trump action

Concerns over future of visiting the United States

An accomplished Syrian musician who now lives in Dunblane says he is saddened by US President Donald Trump’s travel ban.

Ayman Jarjour has performed all over the world - including Carnegie Hall in New York where he even recorded a CD.

However, he is now uncertain as to what the future holds for both himself as a performer and for Syrian friends living in the US.

US President Donald Trump’s decision to halt all refugee admissions and temporarily bar people from seven Muslim-majority countries has sparked protests across the country, and drawn condemnation from the wider world.

The order brings in a suspension of the US Refugee Admissions Programme for 120 days. There is also an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees, The order also introduces a cap of 50,000 refugees to be accepted in 2017, against a limit of 110,000 set by former President Barack Obama although the US President has said priority will be given to religious minorities facing persecution in their countries, with President Trump later singling out Christians in Syria.

Anyone arriving in the US from seven Muslim-majority countries - Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen - faces a 90-day visa suspension.

Ayman told the Observer: “I am not sure I can add much to what many people have said in rejecting this type of discriminatory policy, but personally it makes me sad to think I may find it difficult to travel to the US, a country where I lived and studied and still have many friends.

“I know of Syrian colleagues who are US residents and who are now unsure if they can return as the orders came out while they were abroad.”

Classical guitarist Ayman has performed in the Middle East, Europe, the US, Africa and the Far East.

He studied in Madrid and at the world famous Juilliard arts school in Manhattan.

While it may be some time before Ayman performs for US audiences again, Stirling audiences are much more fortunate.

He will be performing at the Smith Art Gallery and Museum on Sunday (February 5) at 3pm with “Sounds and Sweet Airs: Poetry and Music for Syria”.

He will be on the bill alongside the Smith’s poet-in-residence John Coutts, whose solo show ‘A Box of Surprises’ entertains old and young.

Admission is free and there are refreshments after the performance, however donations are being invited for the charity MASS (Medical Aid and Support for Syria).

Fore more on ‘Sounds and Sweet Airs’ contact John on 01786 470930.