Kreshnik Berisha

I overcame the greatest challenge of my life as an instrumentalist. I won the battle against focal dystonia.

The first symptoms appeared during a period when I was playing the instrument under negative emotions, behaviours, and thoughts, while also being subjected to psycho-emotional pressure. Instead of moving fluidly along the frets of the guitar, the little finger of my left hand began to move uncontrollably.

I underwent several medical examinations in Kosovo, where I was seen by different doctors who, unfortunately, were unable to provide either an explanation or a diagnosis for my condition. This was because the symptoms only appeared while I was playing the instrument, and not under any other circumstance.

However, thanks to the internet, one day I came across the Institut de l’Art. I immediately booked an appointment with Jaume Rosset i Llobet, and that’s when things finally began to make sense. That was the moment I first heard about focal dystonia, and I received a diagnosis on the spot. I also learned about the therapy they have developed specifically to help people with focal dystonia. After that conversation, I felt such a sense of hope that I realised the right path towards my full recovery would lead me to the Institut de l’Art, in Terrassa.

During my stay in Terrassa, I began therapy with Sílvia Fàbregas i Molas, who has guided me step by step for two years. With her wisdom, simplicity, certainty, reliability, support, companionship, and warmth, I came to feel that she knew me better than some of my closest friends and family.

"Throughout the therapy, I learned a great deal about how to relate to my instrument in a safe and healthy way, both physically and mentally. Focal dystonia has made me a much better teacher—it has also given me a whole new perspective on the instrument."

I sincerely recommend the Institut de l’Art to all instrumentalists in Kosovo and around the world who may be facing any kind of physical problem or injury related to instrumental practice. You will be in good hands, with professionals who understand every detail of each movement—even before you’ve played a single note.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Institut de l’Art and to Sílvia Fàbregas for the unique therapy they have developed to treat my condition, and above all, for giving me back control and precision in my hand.