On November 21, 1999, the lyrical singer, Marie Kraja, passed away.

Kraja was among the pioneering soloists during the premiere of the newly inaugurated Opera and Ballet Theatre. Additionally, he played a role in the inaugural Albanian opera production titled ‘Mrika’.

The artist completed her advanced singing studies at the Conservatory of Graz in Austria between 1930 and 1934. Upon returning to Albania, she commenced her career as a music teacher at the ‘Queen Mother’ Institute. Despite her professional engagements abroad, she maintained a strong connection with Albanian music. She was ranked among the leading local singers alongside Tefta Tashko Koço, Kristaq Antoniu, Mihal Ciko, Jorgjie Truja, among others. She performed on renowned European stages in productions such as ‘Rusalka,’ ‘Ivan Susan,’ ‘The Bartered Bride,’ ‘La Traviata,’ ‘Jollanda,’ ‘The Marriage of Figaro,’ and more.

Maria Kraja embarked on her pedagogical journey by establishing Albania’s first music schools: the Artistic High School ‘Jordan Misja’ in Tirana (1946) and the State Conservatory of Tirana (1962). Recognized for her accomplishments as both an artist and mentor, she was honored with the title ‘People’s Artist,’ awarded the ‘Naim Frashëri’ Order of the first class, and presented with the ‘Great Master of Work’ medal.

/m.ll/