On Oct. 1, 1908, the Artistic Society “Banda e Lirisë” was founded in Korçë.

The “Dituria” Club initiated the creation of “Banda e Lirisë”, which marked an important cultural event. Around 40 musicians joined the society under the direction of conductor Paskal Anibale. It became one of the first organized artistic groups in the country before Albania declared independence.

The society went beyond music and organized various artistic and cultural activities. These included theater performances and dance groups. At the same time, “Banda e Lirisë” helped spread national sentiment and strengthen Albanian identity.

Its cultural activities and the spread of patriotic ideas attracted the attention of the Ottoman authorities. They saw “Banda e Lirisë” as a factor in raising Albanian national awareness.

The Ottoman authorities eventually forced the society to stop its activities in December 1911.

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