About: Beaming in from the sizzling Addis Ababa (capital of Ethiopia) nightlife scene, this group shines an experimentalism based in the virtuosity of rooted traditions. With swirling masinko (one-stringed fiddle), wah-wah violin, bass krar grooves, the heavy riffs of goat skin kebero beats, and a powerful lead vocalist, QWANQWA keeps the people rapt in celebratory attention.
QWANQWA's debut US tour of 54 concerts in Fall 2022 delivered a euphoric experience to storied jazz clubs, sticker slapped rock clubs, folk festivals, prestigious music institutions, street festivals, universities, and country opera houses.
QWANQWA is comprised of Endris Hassen (masinko), Kaethe Hostetter (violin), Bubu Teklemariam (bass krar), Selamnesh Zemene (vocalist), and Misale Legesse (kebero).
Together, the band uncovers lesser-known traditional sounds from East Africa regions of Ethiopia and beyond—a trance-like chant of the Eritrean tribe of Blen, a psychadelic Somalian cover, an extended Amhara wedding medley, a Mahmoud Ahmed sing-a-long. With Selamnesh Zemene, the Azmari diva powerhouse, at the helm, QWANQWA is a group defined by tight arrangements and extended experimental moments.
Their live shows range from intimate to wild, from whispery conversations to a full-blown rock show, and it is hard to believe these psychedelic sounds are coming from traditional harps, one-string fiddle, and violin. Driving and powerful, QWANQWA proves we are living during another Golden Age of Ethiopian music.
Date & Time: Friday, April 12, 2024. Doors open at 6:00 PM and the concert starts at 7:00 PM.
Ticket Price: All tickets are general admission. $20 in advance until 3:00 PM on the day of the event. $25 at the door. Children 12 years and below are free when accompanied by an adult.
Ticket Information: Reserve tickets online or by calling the Barns of Rose Hill Box Office at 540-955-2004 (Noon to 3:00 PM – Tuesday through Saturday). When our Box Office is closed, please leave a message. All ticket sales are final; no exceptions and no exchanges.