From Shkodra with Love to European Stages

Be Embraced & Music of Today 2026 is the Western Balkans Youth Orchestra’s international summer and autumn tour, bringing together young musicians from the Western Balkans, Europe, and beyond for an artistic journey across the region and Germany.

Through residencies, chamber music masterclasses, and orchestral performances, the project combines high-level musical training with cultural exchange and international collaboration.

Experience an inspiring evening of orchestral brilliance as the Western Balkans Youth Orchestra brings together more than 70 outstanding young musicians from the Western Balkans, the European Union, and beyond.

Under the direction of emerging conductors Harlen Nikolli & Vuk-Wolkov Popović and the general artistic direction of Desar Sulejmani, the orchestra presents “Be Embraced”—a powerful musical journey featuring works by Richard Wagner, Paul Dukas, George Enescu, and Ottorino Respighi, alongside “From Shkodra with Love” by Albanian composer Gerti Druga.

The programme combines beloved orchestral masterpieces with the creative voice of contemporary Europe, offering audiences an evening full of colour, energy, and emotion.

Founded in 2019, the Western Balkans Youth Orchestra uses music to build bridges across borders and bring a new generation of European musicians together. Through artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and genuine human connection, these young artists demonstrate how an orchestra can become a powerful symbol of unity, friendship, and hope.

Join us for an unforgettable concert celebrating the transformative power of music and a shared European future.

From Shkodra with Love to Europe. 🎻🌍✨

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Support the Orchestra

Attend the concert and support the Western Balkans Youth Orchestra. All donations are greatly appreciated and directly support the WBYO project.