Music Is A Need For Me’: Violinist Discusses Composing An Album Under ISIS

In a world where creativity is often stifled by conflict and oppression, one young violinist dared to defy the odds. Ameen Mukdad, a talented musician from Mosul, Iraq, has spoken out about his extraordinary experience of composing an album under the brutal rule of ISIS.

Mukdad’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the unyielding power of music. Despite living in a city controlled by the extremist group, he continued to pursue his passion, even when it seemed like an impossible feat.

“Music is a need for me,” Mukdad explained in a recent interview. “It’s like breathing, eating, and sleeping. I couldn’t imagine living without it.”

In 2014, ISIS seized control of Mosul, imposing a harsh and oppressive regime on its citizens. Music, along with other forms of artistic expression, was strictly forbidden. The militants viewed music as a corrupting influence, a threat to their twisted ideology.

But Mukdad refused to be silenced. In secret, he began composing an album, pouring his emotions and experiences into the music. The process was fraught with danger, as any discovery by ISIS would have meant severe punishment, even death.

“I had to be very careful,” Mukdad recalled. “I would compose in my head, and then quickly write down the notes when I was alone. I couldn’t risk anyone finding out.”

The album, titled “Hope in Darkness,” is a testament to Mukdad’s bravery and creativity. The music is a poignant reflection of life under ISIS, with themes of resistance, hope, and freedom. Each note and melody is infused with the pain and struggle of living in a war-torn city.

Mukdad’s music is not just a personal expression, but also a form of resistance against the oppressive regime. By creating art in the face of adversity, he was able to reclaim a sense of control and dignity.

“Music gave me the strength to keep going,” he said. “It reminded me that there was still beauty in the world, even in the darkest of times.”

The album’s release has been met with widespread acclaim, with critics praising Mukdad’s talent, courage, and dedication to his craft. The music has also resonated with people around the world, serving as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to persevere in the face of adversity.

Mukdad’s story is a beacon of hope, inspiring others to stand up against oppression and to never lose faith in the transformative power of art. As he so eloquently put it, “Music is a need for me, and it’s a need for humanity. It’s what makes us human.”

In a world where conflict and division often dominate the headlines, Mukdad’s album is a timely reminder of the unifying force of music. His bravery and creativity have inspired a generation, and his music will continue to resonate long after the dust of conflict has settled.

As Mukdad looks to the future, he remains committed to his craft, using his music as a tool for healing and reconciliation. His story is a testament to the enduring power of art, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.