Marsida Koni was voted by the Albanian public as one of the '100 Albanian Career Women' for her international piano achievements and her contribution to spreading Albanian music.
Historical Context
During the communist regime, Albanian music was largely traditional and classical-romantic, deeply connected with Albanian folk music, and isolated from contemporary Western developments.
Composer Biography
Tonin Harapi, a 'People's Artist' and composer on this album, had his studies at the P.I. Tchaikovsky Conservatoire in Moscow interrupted due to diplomatic relations between Albania and Russia.
Historical Context
The first generation of Albanian composers after World War II, many of whom were trained in Moscow, developed Albanian music considerably during the communist regime (1950-1990).
Performer Biography
Marsida Koni, the pianist on this album, is considered one of the '100 Albanian Excellences worldwide' and features in the 'Albanian Excellence' book.
Album & Artwork
Pianist Marsida Koni chose to record these works because they marked her path as a musician from childhood on.
Composition History
Tonin Harapi's Sonatina for piano, written in 1961, gained a place in the annals of Albanian music as the first Albanian sonata.
