Ethio Azmari

The Azmari are skilled at improvisation and play an essential role in Ethiopian society, like the griots or praise singers of West Africa. ETHIO AZMARI features vocalist Sintayehu “Mimi” Zenebe, masenqo player/vocalist Abebe Fikade, drummer Bereket Gebrekirstos and dancer Yordanos Behonegn Nuri.   

Sintayehu ‘Mimi’ Zenebe is a talented vocalist and dancer from a musical family known as the “Edith Piaf” of Ethiopia. She has been performing traditional music from a young age and has shared the stage with many Ethiopian artists and groups. Zenebe was the vocalist for the U.K.’s Dub Colossus, touring internationally and recording albums released on Real World Records. She has perfected her skills as a vocalist, dancer and performer of Azmari songs. Since moving to Toronto, she has performed at community events, weddings, festivals and clubs.   

Abebe Fikade comes from a long line of Azmari from the Gondar regions performing songs with traditional and contemporary themes. He is a masenqo (single-stringed fiddle) player, vocalist and composer who performs the monochord music of the Azmari. Fikade has toured internationally on various tours arranged by Frances Falceto of the Ethiopiques music series. He has performed at the Habari Africa Festival, Sounds of Saba at Alliance Francaise, Ethiopia: A Musical Perspective at Glenn Gould Studio, Luminato Festival and at various Ethiopian restaurants, community events, festivals and clubs.