In the heart of the Albanian-American community, the gifted pianist, Justin Gjata, has returned to his roots. This remarkable Albanian-American artist captivated the audience with the language of his soul, interpreting the timeless compositions of Bach, Beethoven, and Schumann.
The cultural epicenter of the Orthodox Cathedral recently hosted an unforgettable concert titled “Rikthim ne Atdhe” (A Homecoming) by the pianist Justin Gjata. The mesmerizing repertoire featured selections from musical giants such as Bach, Beethoven, Schumann, Chopin, and Liszt. Justin’s journey with the piano began at the tender age of five, and since then, he has never parted ways with this enchanting instrument.
At just 21 years old, Justin Gjata, an Albanian-American pianist, has already amassed numerous awards and accolades for his performances in the United States, his country of birth. However, he decided to embark on a new chapter in his musical journey by returning to Albania, where he mesmerized the Albanian audience with a carefully curated recital.
“I and my father always dreamed of performing together. I am immensely proud to be here in my homeland. This concert is truly a dream come true for me,” says the pianist with a radiant smile.
Justin Gjata has been living with his piano for 16 years now, and he considers it an inseparable part of himself. He passionately shares that he dedicates several hours each day to the piano, pouring his heart and soul into every note. For him, the essence of music lies in conveying emotions during each performance.
“I spend 4-5 hours a day at the piano. I also allocate some time to study musical scores. Without the piano, it’s like an 8-hour job. This is my life. To be a musician, you have to live and breathe it, and the audience deserves the genuine expression of music from the depths of the soul,” Gjata passionately expresses.
Following his debut concert in Albania, Justin promises that he will return with an even grander performance. His commitment to sharing the beauty of classical music and his dedication to perfecting his craft continue to inspire both his admirers and aspiring musicians alike. Justin Gjata’s return to his homeland not only brought him closer to his roots but also rekindled the passion for music in the hearts of the Albanian people, reminding us all of the universal language that transcends borders and speaks to the soul.
