International Festival of Operatic Singers “Marie Kraja”
3rd Edition
The 3rd International Festival of Operatic Singers “Marie Kraja”

The Festival took place on 5, 6, 7 April 2001. 21 operatic singers form Albania, England, France, Italy, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, USA, etc. took part in the competition.

The Symphonic Orchestra of the Theater of Opera and Ballet of Albania accompanied the singers during the three concerts. The Festival was broadcasted LIVE on the Albanian National Television.

The Prize winners of the 3rd Festival were:

First Prize “Marie Kraja”Ms. Elona ÇENO, soprano (Albania)
Second PrizeMr. Biser GEORGIEV, bass (Bulgaria)
Third PrizeMs. Irini NIKOLLA, soprano (Albania)

The Jury of the 3rd Festival:

  • Ms. Claudia EDER (Frankfurt, Germany), Chair
  • Mr. Stephen BARLOW, conductor (London)
  • Mr. Plamen KARTALOFF, Director of the Opera House (Sofia)
  • Ms. Peggy BOUVERETT, professor of canto (Paris)
  • Ms. Enkelejda SHKOZA, soprano (Italy)
  • Mr. Frano LUFI, bass (Italy)
  • Mr. George WHITE, director (New York)
  • Mr. Gaqo ÇAKO, tenor (Albania)
  • Mr. Burhan SPAHIU, professor of canto, (Albania)

President of the Festival:

Mr. Edi RAMA
Mayor of Tirana

Artistic Director and Producer:

Mrs. Zana ÇELA

Director:

Pali KUKE

Conductor:

Ermir KRANTJA