Following the publication of personal archives preserving the cultural heritage of Shkodër, Shkodër Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage (DRTK) unveils two valuable artifacts: the guitar and violin belonging to the renowned composer Pjetër Gaci.

The guitar belonging to composer Pjetër Gaci is a treasured possession meticulously preserved within the Gaci family. Throughout his life, the composer spent extensive time producing melodies alongside this instrument, which served as a companion to his artistic creations. Today, it evokes a myriad of sweet and poignant memories for the family.

As for Pjetër Gaci’s violin, dating back to 1827 and crafted as an imitation of Carlo Bergonzi’s work, it holds historical significance. Gaci’s fondness for the violin originated at the age of 10 when, before the country’s liberation, he engaged in fishing expeditions in Velipoja or Shiroka. During these moments, he exchanged fish with Italian soldiers in return for classical music records, igniting his passion for the instrument.

Today, the composer’s violin has been passed down to his granddaughter, Elizabeta Dodmasej, as a gift from her uncle, in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements. Dodmasej completed her education at the “Prenk Jakova” school and subsequently attended the Conservatory of Arts (now the University of Arts). Throughout this period, she showcased performances in Tirana using this exquisite violin. Following that, she dedicated 14 years to teaching at the “Prenk Jakova” school.

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