The President of the Republic, Ilir Meta, through a status distributed on “Facebook”, says that he has awarded the title “Grand Master”, to some polyphonic groups of Vlora.

Meta says that these awards are given away on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the inclusion of Albanian iso-polyphony in the list of “Masterpieces of humanity”, protected by UNESCO.

Also, Meta has awarded the title “Naim Frashëri”to Sinan Gjoleka and Dule Beqir Gjoka for their valuable contribution as prominent singers, dancers and popular instrumentalists of Labëria.

On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the inclusion of Albanian iso-polyphony in the list of “Masterpieces of humanity”, protected by UNESCO, yesterday I had the honor to award with the title “Grand Master”, Polyphonic groups “Vranishti”, Vlora; “Kaons” of Delvina and “Dukati” of Vlora, for special contribution as prominent bearers of the values ​​of this valuable cultural heritage of the Albanian nation.

“Grand Master” was awarded to the talented singers and dancers Arap Çeloleskaj and Taip Madani (after death); Sejmen Gjokoli, Katina Mërkuri, Hysen Ruka, Rrahman Nuredini, Syrja Hodo, Fatbardha Brahimaj, Abdyl Lizaj and Berdo Berdaj, for their invaluable contribution to the interpretation, preservation, transmission and popularization of the values ​​of iso-polyphony in national festivals and international folklore festivals.

The title “Knight of the Order of the Flag” was awarded to Dhimitër Varfi for his artistic talent, outstanding interpretation and special tenor voice, as well as his unique role in keeping alive, cultivating and perfecting the Himara song.

“Deserved appreciation for these luminaries of polyphony, for everything they have done for the Homeland, for the Flag, for the cultural spirit of the nation and the exaltation of the Albanian polyphony to UNESCO!” said Meta.

/Klara Ruci/