Qwanqwa

QWANQWA is Outdoor Ethiopian music with strong rhythmic drums, traditional and experimental string instruments and African diva Vocals.

Brought together by a shared passion for the power of Ethiopian music, this group shines with experimentalism based in the virtuosity of rooted traditions. With swirling mesenko (one-stringed fiddle), punk krar solors (electric lyre), wah-wah-violing, bass krar boom, and the unstoppable rhythm of heavy kebero (goat-skin drum) beats, powerful traditional lead African diva vocals, Qwanqwa keeps audiences wrapped in celebratory attention. After making a splash at world-renowned festivals and with two European tours under their belt, this world-traveling ensemble is coming to America and Kayenta!

Qwanqwa draws inspiration from East African regions of Ethiopia and beyond. Delving deep into regional beats and moods, the repertoire ranges from a trance-like song of the Eritrean tribe of Bien to a Somalian rock number to Mahmoud Ahmed sing-a-longs. The music is characterized by tight arrangements and extended experimental moments.

The live show ranges from intimate to wild, from whispery to a full-blown rock show. It will be hard to believe the psychedelic sounds are coming from traditional hand and string instruments. Featuring vocalist Azmair Selamnesh & Violinist Kaethe Hostetter, this concert is driving, powerful, and unique.