Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Aquaquam
(church music) uses resonating drums - the
kabaro
and the
tsinatseil
(sis-
trum; a sophisticated rattle, thought to be directly descended from an ancient Egyptian in-
strument used to worship Isis). Percussion instruments are primarily used since their func-
tion is to mark the beat for chanting and dancing. The
maquamia
(prayer stick) also plays
an essential role in church ceremonies and, with hand-clapping, is used to mark time. Very
occasionally a
meleket
(trumpet) is used, such as to lead processions.
Secular Music
Strongly influenced by church music, secular music usually combines song and dance,
emphasises rhythm, and often blends both African and Asian elements. The Amharas' and
Tigrayans' highland music, as well as that of the peoples living near the Sudanese border,
is much influenced by Arab music, and is very strident and emotive.
Wind and percussion instruments are used. The
begenna
is a type of harp similar to that
played by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The most popular instrument in Ethiopia is the
krar
, a five- or six-stringed lyre, which is often heard at weddings or used to attract cus-
tomers to traditional pubs or bars.
In the highlands, particularly the Simien and Bale Mountains, shepherd boys can be
found with reed flutes. The
washint
is about 50cm long, with four holes, and makes a bub-
bling sound that is said to imitate running water. It's supposed to keep the herds close by
and calm the animals.
Modern Music
Ethiopian modern music is diverse and affected by outside influences, and ranges from
classical Amharic to jazz and pop. Modern classical singers and musicians include the late
Assefa Abate, Kassa Tessema and the late female vocalist Asnakech Worku. The com-
poser Mulatu Astatike is well known for his Ethiojazz.
Amharic popular music boasts a great following with the young. Unlike many other
African countries, it's generally much preferred to Western music, and can be heard in all
the larger towns' bars and discos.
Among the best known is Tewodros Kassahun ('Teddy Afro') whose political album
Yaasteseryal,
which was released in 2005 during a time of heightened political tension
following disputed elections, got him on the wrong side of the government, but sent his
popularity sky-rocketing. Four songs from the album were eventually banned by the gov-
ernment. His latest album is
Tikur Sew
.
Ethiopian rap is massively popular among the young in all the big Ethiopian towns.
Like many forms of artistic expression in Ethiopia most performers use a certain amount
