Senior Christian Sinishtaj and his group “Sound of the Çifteli” after their performance on Nov. 28, for Albanian Independence Day. The group traveled and performed together throughout Michigan, often in front of hundreds or even thousands of people. “It’s a great feeling, being able to perform with my friends and share our culture,” Sinishtaj said.

To carry on his family’s traditions, senior Christian Sinishtaj picked up his first instrument, the Albanian “çifteli.” 

“I started [playing the çifteli] because when my dad was younger, he used to play it for weddings,” Sinishtaj said. 

Traditionally played at weddings, the çifteli is a staple of Albanian culture and has been in the Sinishtaj family for generations, being passed down from his grandpa to his father and now him. Beyond just weddings, the instrument is used in musical performances and competitions, such as the “Gjirokastër National Folk Festival,” a festival in Albania where Sinishtaj will be performing next year. 

“I started playing it less than a year ago but I got really good at it and now I’m getting a chance to play in Albania next year,” Sinishtaj said.

This upcoming performance and another one later on in the year will mark his fifth and sixth live performances ever. In preparation, he practices every day learning new songs such as “Vallje Gjergi Kastriotit,” and “Vallje Rugoves.” Both of which are traditional dance songs from Albanian culture. 

“Christian practices every Monday at our church. He’s been doing it for a little while now and he looks to be refining his skills every week,” senior Artan Gjonaj said.

At their church, Sinishtaj does more than just practice his çifteli, he also participates in traditional dancing. He has been a part of a dance group since he was eight years old, dancing with his sister and their friends. As a part of “Grupi Gjergj Kastrioti,” Sinishtaj has traveled to Albania, Montenegro and even Greece to perform Albanian folk dances, often dressed in traditional Albanian clothing. 

“At first I only did it because my mom made me do it but I started to like it, because I got to travel and hang out with friends,” Sinishtaj said.

Whether it’s through instruments or dance, Sinishtaj uses music as a way to connect with family and express his love for Albanian culture. Growing up, his father Gjon Sinishtaj spoke little English, so he had to learn Albanian at a young age. Sinishtaj believes that it is his duty to spread Albanian culture because many people didn’t have the same experience he did. 

“I like to spread Albanian culture because a lot of Albanian kids now don’t know how to speak the language or don’t really care for it,” Sinishtaj said. “If a young guy like me is spreading it, then maybe they will pick up on it.”