Oct 01 2022
Qwanqwa

Qwanqwa

Presented by Kayenta Arts Foundation at Center for the Arts at Kayenta

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.

Admission Info

Cost: $10 - $30

Dates & Times

2022/10/01 - 2022/10/01

Location Info

Center for the Arts at Kayenta

881 Coyote Gulch Court, Ivins, UT 84738

Parking Info

Parking is available surrounding the venue and in nearby satellite lots that serve the Coyote Village.