“A Syrian musician who was allowed to legally immigrate to the United States on account of his ‘extraordinary’ abilities, and who recently toured with famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, is now wondering whether he can return to his Brooklyn home,” writes Philip Issa in a Sunday (1/29) Associated Press report. “Kinan Azmeh, a clarinet player who has called the U.S. home for 16 years, said Sunday he does not have a ‘plan B’ if he is not allowed to return. Azmeh, who flew to China three weeks ago to perform with Ma, was caught in travel limbo after President Donald Trump issued an order last Friday to refuse entry to citizens of Syria and six other Muslim-majority nations, including travelers holding valid visas and residency permits. He was granted a green card three years ago…. The 40-year-old is currently in Beirut on the last leg of his tour before he will attempt to return home later this week.… Azmeh grew up in Damascus, Syria…. He has not been able to visit Damascus since Syria descended into war nearly six years ago.” Click here for information from the League on the travel ban that affects screening, visa issuance, and admissions procedures for individuals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
Posted January 30, 2017
Pictured: Clarinetist and composer Kinan Azmeh in performance with the Silk Road Ensemble
