Fanfara Tirana is a novelty among Balkan brass bands. In comparison with traditional Slavic brass bands, this ensemble is different and new thanks to the well articulated music language that is essentially based on a very melodic path with the support of other instruments. Melody is assigned to the clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet and tenor saxophone, expressing their style of pure improvisation defined as “kaba” (typical of music from South Albania) and “gazel” (typical of music from Tirana and neighboring villages).
Masterfully conducted by Usta Berati (accordionist, bass tuba player and arranger), Fanfara Tirana presents a repertoire with traditional music and new compositions resounding of Balkan and oriental sonority. The brass ensemble has already developed a large audience in Europe. Thay play unbridled on the stage and gain the satisfaction of the public. Like their fans in Tirana say “…they, make dead people dance…”. Fanfara Tirana usually performs with the extraordinary voice of Hysni (Niko) Zela.
The band in 2013:
Ahmet Caushi (Usta Berati) – accordion, bass tuba
Xhemali Murraj – trumpet
Agim Sako – tenor saxophone
Pellumb Xhepi – baritone flugelhorn
Mark Luca – baritone flugelhorn
Fatbardh Capi – clarinet, saxophone
Roland Shaqja – baritone saxophone
Gezim Haxhia – clarinet
Ali Logu – daulle o tapan
Kujtim Hoxha – rolling instruments
Hysni (Niko) Zela – vocals
Partial discography:
Albanian Wedding Brass Explosion (Piranha, 2008)
Kabatronics, with Transglobal Underground (World Village, 2013)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
