During National Culture Week, composer and conductor Rafet Rudi presented his book “My Book of Memories” at the Academy of Sciences.

The event began with musicologist Rreze Kryeziu Breznica. She praised Rudi as a composer, conductor, and thinker. She said the book highlights a key historical, professional, and spiritual period.

Next, Skënder Gjinushi, President of the Albanian Academy of Sciences, awarded Rudi the honorary decoration “Honor of the Academy”. He called Rudi a leading figure in Albanian music and culture.

The award recognized Rudi as: a composer and conductor active in Albania and Kosovo, a promoter of musical collaborations, a mentor to young artists, and founder of the REMUSICA festival. He also performed works of Albanian composers on international stages.

Then, Prof. Dr. Zana Shuteriqi highlighted the book’s value. She said it goes beyond autobiography and shows historical influences that shaped Rudi.

Academician Vasil Tole added that this is the first complete autobiographical book by an Albanian composer. He compared it to works of top global composers.

Furthermore, Dardan Selimaj of the Kosovo Philharmonic called the book a vivid record of musical history in Kosovo and beyond.

Finally, Rafet Rudi said the book chronicles his era. It preserves rare information about musical life, especially where archives are limited due to Kosovo’s past events.

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