The Artist
Mohammad Al Issa, originally from the Syrian city of Raqqa, is an oud player, pianist and teacher. He performs as part of a group called Nard and presents a local radio programme called Oud Rozana.
The Work
Mohammad’s documentary, When Al-Furat Sings, explores the musical folklore of the Euphrates region and the shared sense of identity that remains for people who have been displaced from their homes. It highlights poetry as an essential part of the songs from this region. The work was made in the city of Urfa, in eastern Turkey, where folk singers, writers, singers and musicians have congregated after fleeing Syria.