The elements Vallja e Osman Takës, Fyejt e Gramshit, the story of Tana, and Udha e Krushqve were presented on 23 June at the “Jordan Misja” Artistic Lyceum in a concert-performance that blended traditional Albanian music with modern jazz aesthetics. Selected through the “Heritage is Our Brand” project, these cultural heritage elements were brought to life through sound, improvisation, and artistic storytelling.
The artistic concept and original compositions were created by pianist and composer Andi Kongo, who offered a fresh approach to Albanian folklore through ethno-jazz.
Inspired by three stories from the Albania Heritage platform, Kongo explains that the idea emerged from a desire to revive stories, rituals, and traditions that, in his view, are fading in the rhythm of modern life.
“The goal of this project is to recall some of our cultural treasures, which we often forget. Storytelling combined with jazz music makes it easier for the audience to discover and experience them,” he said.
According to Kongo, the selection of the four elements was not random. They were chosen because of their strong connection to Albanian folk music and because they represent rituals that have accompanied community life across generations.
The composer also emphasized that jazz and Albanian folk music share an important common element: improvisation.
“We had improvisation long before jazz was born. Our folk music has been transmitted through generations by oral tradition and live interpretation. This is exactly what makes it so close to the language of jazz,” he said.
On stage, performances were delivered by Ermal Rodi (flute and clarinet), Elona Islamaj (violin and vocals), Iris Sula (vocals), Arbin Alimeri (bass), and Emiljan Dhimo (drums). Actors Eno Basha and Iris Sula guided the audience through a narrative that brought Albanian memory, ritual, and cultural identity into a contemporary artistic form.
Kongo also acknowledged the support of the European Union, DMO Albania, and EU Policy Hub, stressing that such projects not only promote cultural heritage but also create new artistic forms that bring audiences closer to tradition.
“Songs and Rituals” proposes a new dialogue between heritage and contemporary creativity, demonstrating that Albanian history, legends, and traditional music can communicate powerfully with today’s audiences through the universal language of jazz.
The project is implemented within the “Heritage is Our Brand” grant scheme, an initiative funded by the European Union and implemented by DMO Albania and EU Policy Hub, aiming to promote and revitalize Albanian cultural heritage through innovative forms of art.
