The first edition of the RLIOF (Rame Lahaj International Opera Festival) was a resounding success, taking place from July 29th to August 7th, and featuring a masterclass led by renowned vocal coach Vito Maria Brunetti on operatic techniques and interpretation. The masterclass was held from July 29th to August 3rd, and was followed by the highly-anticipated “New Generation” concert, held on August 3rd at the Kosovo National Theatre.

On August 4th, the festival continued with an opera night and tribute concert to the late Nexhmije Pagarusha, featuring performances by talented worldwide artists such as Jessica Nuccio, Davide Giusti and local artists such as Adelina Paloja, Jeta Citaku, Xhieldo Hyseni, and the Siparantum Choir. The festival was brought to a triumphant close on August 7th with the Rame Lahaj & Friends Gala, held in the main square of Prishtina. The gala featured performances by Rame Lahaj himself, Lana Kos, Simone Piazzola, and was conducted by the accomplished Antonello Allemandi, in collaboration with the Kosovo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Throughout the festival, audiences were treated to a veritable feast of operatic delights, with performances showcasing the full range of vocal and musical prowess. From the masterclass, to the “New Generation” concert, to the opera night and tribute concert, to the Rame Lahaj & Friends Gala, the festival provided a showcase for some of the most talented and promising young singers and musicians in the world of opera. The first edition of the RLIOF was a true celebration of the art form, and a testament to the enduring power and beauty of opera.