Ethiopia recently unveiled the Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center in a ceremony graced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD). Located within the Yared School of Music, this grand opening celebrates not just the institution but the extraordinary man behind its namesake. But who exactly was Ashenafi Kebede (Prof.)?
Ashenafi’s compositions are celebrated for their evocative portrayal of Ethiopia’s rural serenity, an ironic twist given his urban upbringing in Addis Ababa. Among Ethiopia’s musical elite and international aficionados, Ashenafi’s name resonates strongly, though he remains a hidden gem to the broader public. He was a maestro of classical music, a pioneering ethnomusicologist, a diligent music historian, a prolific author, and an inspiring teacher.
Ashenafi was born in 1938. His childhood, though not extensively documented, was profoundly influenced by his mother, Fantaye Nekere. “Ashenafi’s mother, Fantaye, was an artistic individual and an early source of inspiration for young Ashenafi. She taught him about Ethiopian artistic forms such as poetry and verse, which he later drew upon for his work,” one review highlights.
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Ashenafi’s heritage is steeped in historical significance. His paternal grandfather, LiqeMekuwas Adinew Goshu, was a celebrated hero of the Battle of Adwa and a trusted advisor to Empress Taitu. Even more illustrious, his great-grandfather, Dejazmach Goshu, was a mentor and teacher to Emperor Tewodros—reflecting a family lineage deeply intertwined with Ethiopia’s storied past.
The new centre not only honors Ashenafi’s legacy but also aims to inspire future generations of Ethiopian artists, echoing the rich cultural heritage that he embodied and celebrated throughout his life.
Ashenafi Kebede’s life journey ended on May 8, 1998, in Tallahassee, Florida.
Career
Ashenafi received his education in musicology in the United States, earning a BA from the Eastman School of Music. In 1960, he obtained a Master of Arts from Wesleyan University, followed by a PhD in 1971. He began his illustrious career at the Yared School of Music in Addis Ababa in 1963.
In 1967, during a visit to Budapest, the city’s daily newspaper spotlighted him as the only African composer known to the European world, dubbing him the “Black Kodály” after the renowned Hungarian composer ZoltánKodály. This recognition was significant, as many African countries had just emerged from European colonialism.
Among his celebrated works is “The Shepherd Flutist,” a mesmerizing symphony featuring the soprano sound of Ethiopia’s traditional bamboo reed instrument. First performed in 1968 with a Bulgarian orchestra, this piece continues to enchant listeners across generations in Ethiopia, including contemporary teenagers.
Ashenafi’s repertoire includes other notable compositions such as “Peace Unto Ethiopia” and “The Life of Our Nation,” as well as “Koturasia,” a piece written for the flute, clarinet, violin, and the Japanese instrument koto.
The establishment of the Center, thanks to renowned Ethiopian pianist Girma Yifrashewa, aims to immortalize Ashenafi’s legacy. Inaugurated in early June on the premises of the Yared School of Music, the centre was opened with a ceremony attended by ministers, ambassadors, musicians of all ages, and prominent figures, including the Prime Minister.
“It was a dream come true for me,” Girma told the gathering. He had long awaited a proper auditorium to stage his music shows, mostly piano concertos, which he previously performed in less suitable venues. He envisions the Centre as a premier location for expatriate communities and local music lovers to enjoy concerts, fostering a vibrant musical atmosphere.
Girma also plans to invite international music bands to perform at the Center, promoting a diverse range of music to Ethiopian audiences and enhancing the country’s cultural scene. Additionally, he hopes the new Center will serve as an educational venue, nurturing the next generation of Ethiopian musicians.
In the realm of classical music, Maestro Girma Yifrashewa is a luminary. His recordings, especially those interpreting Ashenafi’s compositions on piano, have garnered acclaim both in Ethiopia and abroad. One standout is his rendition of “The Shepherd Flutist,” a piece that has resonated deeply with audiences and solidified Girma’s reputation as a key figure in promoting Ethiopian classical music.
His numerous piano concerts have played a crucial role in introducing instrumental music to the Ethiopian public and the international community residing in Ethiopia. Despite classical music not being widely recognized in the country, Girma’s relentless efforts are awakening audiences to this genre. By revitalizing the works of pioneers like Professor Ashenafi and other Ethiopian musicians from the past, he hopes that their legacy continues to inspire contemporary and future generations.
Ashenafi Kebede was a multifaceted talent, excelling not only in music but also as a prolific writer. His literary contributions include the novel “Confession” (1964), various articles in ethnomusicology journals, the seminal book “Roots of Black Music,” and numerous pieces for “The Chronicler,” the magazine of the Center for African-American Culture.
“Roots of Black Music” is described as “an authoritative, fascinating study of the origins of black music, reflecting the author’s life experiences growing up in Ethiopia, first-hand knowledge acquired through fieldwork in Africa, and extensive research in the United States. The book traces the development of songs, instrumental music, dance, blues, and jazz. It includes biographical sketches of some of the most outstanding musicians of Africa and North America. Dr.Kebede also explores urban music and the impact of communication media on traditional forms of black music.
“With rare insight, Professor Kebede goes beyond the limitations of many introductory texts, delving deeply into the construction, tuning, and use of various musical instruments. ‘Roots of Black Music’ covers both oriental and sub-Saharan cultures in one volume and aims to enhance understanding of the music of African and African American peoples. Ultimately, it is a book that will increase your appreciation through the pleasures of listening,” reads an excerpt from Wikipedia.
Girma’s commitment and effort to preserve and promote the legacy of Ashenafi Kebedeis truly commendable. The inauguration of the Professor Ashenafi Kebede Performing Arts Center is a milestone in this journey, serving as a testament for Ethiopia’s rich musical heritage-promising to cultivate a vibrant musical culture, bridging the past and the present, and inspiring future generations of musicians.
