Heritage Space

Revision  #15

Created

Cathedral Choir
Ilir Memaj

Cathedral Choir by Ilir Memaj is a short documentary shedding light on the little-known story of the choir of the “Our Lady of Succour” Cathedral in Prizren. Through archival materials, personal narratives, and imagery of the cathedral, Memaj—a choir member himself—explores the choir’s pivotal social and cultural role beyond its religious function. Featuring oral histories from long-time members, the documentary highlights how the choir fostered community, provided a rare social space for youth, and contributed to Kosovo’s artistic and musical heritage.

The choir, once central to Prizren’s Catholic community, connected individuals and enriched lives through collective singing. It influenced cultural landmarks such as the formation of Shoqëria Agimi and shaped figures like Lorenc Antoni, a key contributor to Kosovo’s musical education. By tracing these connections, Memaj’s documentary captures how the choir’s legacy intertwines identity, belonging, and cultural memory.

Img

Cathedral Choir

Programme

HS Fellowship

Timeline

04.11.2020
—23.05.2021

Mentors

Project Lead

Contributors

  • Music: Cathedral Choir of Prizren
  • Camera: Berat Hoxha, Miran Hoxha
  • Editing: Berat Hoxha

Formats

Time

23.05.2021

The Documentary shows personal narratives of choir members including: Zana Delhysa, Sister Jana Topalli and Bibiana Bytyqi.

Moments from the premiere of Cathedral Choir by Ilir Memaj at Kino Lumbardhi in Prizren on May 24, 2021. The documentary entails interviews with members of the choir of the “Our Lady of Succour” Cathedral in Prizren .