The Ethio-Armenian Contribution to Ethiopian Music

From the times of Emperor Haile Selassie I and the Arba Lijoch (40 adopted Armenian orphans who comprised his imperial orchestra) to the legendary Ethio-jazz singer Alèmayèhu Eshèté, Armenians have long been intertwined with the musical and cultural history of Ethiopia. Kevork Nalbandian—composer of the first Ethiopian national anthem, his nephew Nerses—jazz musician and instructor, and his children, Vartkes and Salpi—both musicians and business owners, have all left their mark on the musical landscape of Ethiopia. Aramazt Kalayjian is working on a documentary to keep their story alive.  Follow his exciting journey into the past, present and future here om Tumblr.

Would you like to comment?