Sherif Merdani, a singer, passed away in Tirana. Born in Korçë in 1940, he began his artistic career as a singer while participating in activities at the Pedagogical School in Korçë from 1953 to 1957. He completed his higher studies at the University of Tirana in the history-geography department from 1963 to 1967, where he was also actively involved in singing. Merdani participated in the 8th Song Festival on Albanian Radio Television with the song “Shokë të pandarë” (“Inseparable Friends”) in 1969, followed by the 9th Festival with “Mes jush” (“Amongst You”) in 1970, and he won first prize at the 10th Festival with “Kënga e nënës” (“Mother’s Song”) in 1971, later competing in the 11th Festival with the song “Duart e tua” (“Your Hands”) in 1972. However, after 1972, he faced a ban on performing on stage and was sentenced, serving time until his release in 1989. Following his release, he worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 1992 onward, serving as a cultural attaché in Italy (1992–1995) and Romania (1998–2001). Merdani also participated in various festivals and activities, including the Spring Festival with the song “Se kënduam Let it be” in 1992, as well as that year’s national festival on Albanian Radio Television with “Mother’s Symphony.” (“Simpfonia e nënës”). (In the photo: Sherif Merdani)
Text: Josif Papagjoni
Photo: © https://www.teksteshqip.com/komuniteti/
Graphic processing: AHCF
