“Serenights Festival”: Korça fills with the sounds and magic of serenades

Korça is filled with the sounds of serenades in the third edition of the “Serenights Festival,” a four-day celebration bringing one of the city’s most beloved traditions back to its alleys, squares and characteristic spaces.

The festival, which opened last night and runs until September 20, brings a music program to four different venues across Korça, creating an open stage where tradition and contemporary interpretations intertwine through music.

The first night took place at “Bashta Themistokli” and was dedicated especially to the young voices of the city. A series of artists and instrumentalists took the stage, with a repertoire blending Korça serenades with well-known Albanian songs.

Korça mayor Sotiraq Filo said “Korça’s music and flavors came together, bringing the sounds and atmosphere of one of Korça’s most distinctive traditions. We continue with three more nights, at Mitropolia Square, the Old Bazaar and Mitropolia Alley, with artists, music and Korça serenades.”

Well-known names of Albanian music are expected on stage in the coming nights, among them Mihallaq Andrea, Eli Fara and Redon Makashi.

Through this event, the serenade returns to the settings where its tradition has been passed down from generation to generation.

Serenades are songs born as love dedications in the alleys of Korça, played on guitar and mandolin beneath the windows of girls to whom love was declared.

Source: 24-ore.com