Zef Çoba


Zef Çoba is a musical conductor. He completed his studies of choral conducting at the Art Academy in Tirana in 1974. After graduating he was appointed Music Director of Culture Centre in Peshkopi and then in Shkoder. He studied folklore, particularly of the regions where he worked, and in taught himself composition. In 1989 began working as a professional composer. In 1991 began to work at Radio Shkodra as a music redactor/editor, and after that, as a journalist and chief editor.
In 2003, he began working near the Art Academy in Tirana, teaching classes including orchestral conducting, chorus & choral conducting and chamber music. He conducted the Chorus “Dom Mikel Koliqi” of Shkoder Cathedral, the Chorus of Cathedral “Gjon Pali” Tirane, and as of 2011 was the Conductor of Saint Francesco church chorus – Shkoder.
In 1999 he founded the Friends of Music Rozafa Expression. He is the composer of 16 Albanian films, musical, vocal works, instrumentals, theater shows, chorus works, soloists and chorus, songs of Shkoder urban tradition and songs for children.
He has several honorary titles:
The Friends of Music Rozafa Expression initiates and participates in artistic activity at national and international levels. The denomination synthesizes members’ civic and artistic duty. “Rozafa” is the castle, a testimony of the 2400 years civilized history - the myth of Shkoder, a legend that symbolizes the Sacrifice, which is an expression of civic duty. The music tradition in Shkoder is the basis of this movement. A practice that serves the consolidation and integration of good musical values is the space created after the 90s. This repertoire is expanded with Albanian traditional songs, arrangements, and selected works from choral music of several styles, epochs and countries.
Çoba was part of many activities in Albania and abroad, including the International festival of chorus in Tirana, Andros, Cetinje, Karditsa Avola, Vibo Valentia, Shkodra Jazz Tuz, Tetove Ripatransone, Tirana, Cuneo Saluzzo, Svilgiano, and various tours in Naples. These activity are possible thanks to the members’ passionate work, to donators valuable contributions and to the revitalization of cultural and artistic life.

Xhamadani song

In 1993 Çoba composed Xhamadani vija vija, a song that has become the theme of the supporters of Albania national football team.