Aleks Xhelili is regarded as one of the leading clarinetists of southern Albania, an area where this instrument enjoys an important position within the local folk music tradition. He is the leader of the regional folk ensemble in his home area of Kolonjë. In addition to the clarinet he also plays accordion as well as performing vocal duties as part of the local men's polyphonic singing group.

He was recorded by Chris Johnston for the critically acclaimed Cry You Mountains, Cry You Fields: Traditional Songs & Instrumental Music From S.E. Albania in June 1996 and has released albums in Albania under his own name and as part of Sazet e Kolonjës. He has also performed a number of times in other countries and has featured as a participant in Albania's prestigious National Folklore Festival. He also has close connections to many artists from the neighbouring province of Përmet and has recorded with Vaskë Curri amongst others.

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