By Jean Noel Mugabo
QWANQWA will bring a unique, experimental contemporary sound based in Ethiopian musical traditions to the Space Gallery in Portland on Sunday.
In an exclusive interview with Amjambo Africa, Kaethe Hostetter, founder of the group, explained the name.
“QWANQWA is derived from the Amharic word for ‘language.’ Our ethos revolves around the belief that music serves as a universal language through which we communicate and connect with one another. Our chemistry thrives on the pursuit of universality through music and rhythm.”
Performed in Amharic – the country’s predominant language – on traditional instruments, the ensemble features Misale Legesse on the kebero, Endris Hassen on the masinko, Anteneh Teklemariam on the bass kirar, Selamnesh Zemene as the vocalist, and Kaethe Hostetter on the violin.
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QWANQWA ‘s music is woven from the diverse rhythms and beats of East Africa, particularly Ethiopia, but including Eritrea and Somalia. According to Ms. Hostetter, it can be described as a fusion of various musical influences, incorporating elements of jazz, rock, experimental sounds, and traditional melodies.
“It’s a combination,” Ms. Hostetter explains. “It’s sort of like a little bit of jazz, a little bit of rock, a little bit of words… it’s categorized as a little bit experimental. If you like any of those kinds of music, you will like QWANQWA, because you have inroads with us.”
For rock enthusiasts, there are plenty of dynamic riffs to enjoy, while jazz aficionados will appreciate the improvisational flair. Experimental music fans will find intrigue in the unconventional use of instruments and departure from traditional norms. Additionally, the blues influence inherent in African music creates a familiar yet distinctive connection for listeners.
When asked about the repertoire they’re bringing to Maine, Ms. Hostetter said that QWANQWA will perform a variety of original songs and instrumentals, ranging from subtle whispers to lively expressions of joy.
“It was a long-held dream of mine to bring [Qwanqwa ] to the U.S. for a tour, and it finally materialized after the challenges of the pandemic…The group is now embarking on an extensive tour across the United States, spanning more than 40 shows in less than three months, showcasing the rich musical heritage of Ethiopia to diverse audiences nationwide.”
The birth of QWAQWA
Hostetter’s musical journey began at the tender age of three when she started playing violin in her hometown of Santa Cruz, California. Fourteen years later she relocated to Boston, where she discovered Ethiopian music, which touched her so deeply she began delving into the rich cultural tapestry of the country. She was a founding member of the esteemed Debo Band, which toured extensively, and moved to Addis Ababa in 2009. Eventually, the quintet Qwanqwa was noticed internationally and garnered acclaim. This is the quintet’s second tour.
QWANQWA was featured prominently at Roskilde 2016, the largest music festival in Northern Europe, and has toured three times in Europe, captivating audiences. They have released three acclaimed albums: “Volume One” (2014), “Volume Two” (2015), and “Volume Three” (2020).
For those interested in attending the performance, tickets are available on the group’s website, qwanqwa.net. The concert at the Space Gallery is at 8 P.M. on Sunday, April 7. Following their Portland performance, they are scheduled to perform in Brookville, ME, among other locations.
