AFA "Rugova" – Peja

The Songs and Dances Ensemble “Drenica” from Skenderaj was declared the winner of the 23rd edition of the Folkloric Festival “We Sing to Freedom” by the professional jury. The festival was held in Klinë over the course of three consecutive nights.

The second place was awarded to the Authentic Folkloric Ensemble “Rugova,” while the third place went to SHKA “Malësori” from Gjonaj of Has. These three awards were presented by the Mayor of the Municipality of Klinë, Prof. Dr. Zenun Elezaj, and Halil Krasniqi, the father of the heroes Mujë and Ali Krasniqi. The Audience Award was won by the group “Feniks” from Switzerland. Additionally, the festival’s professional jury—consisting of Prof. Xhevdet Gashi, Prof. Suzana Drenica (choreographer), and Prof. Dr. Kushtrim Jakupi (musicologist)—presented 12 other awards, including Best Overall Group, Festival Veteran, Best Costume, and more. Xhevdet Gashi, the head of the jury, stated that this day is a folkloric celebration, a gift of our rich folkloric tradition. The differences between the artistic groups performing on stage were very small. 

The third night featured performances of high artistic value. The “Kastriotët” group from Ferizaj delivered a complete and well-rounded presentation. The group from Shkup performed songs from the Shkup region, while the rhapsodists Naim and Sali Bytyçi were met with applause and received the award for Best Duet. The “Besa” group from Shkodra was warmly applauded for the song “Mirë se t’gjeta mori Klinë,” as were the Men’s Group of Mirdita. The polyphonic group from Tirana was well-received for their high-level interpretation of polyphonic songs. “Shotë Galica” from Drenica performed at their usual high standard. Meanwhile, the AKV “Anamorava” from Vitia stood out for the dances performed by its young women. 

Ndezja e fishekzjarrëve, shënoj mbyllen e festivalit, që vertetë ishte festiv. Kisha nderin të ndajë çmimin “Ansambli me i kompletuar” që shkoj tek AKV ” Qyteti Obiliq” nga Obiliqi. Si drejtor i festivalit falendëroj të gjithë Këshillin Organizativ për punë dhe angazhimin për të përmbyllur me suksesë edicionin e 23- të e Festivalit Folklorik “I Këndojmë Lirisë”.