Ethiopia’s top washint player Yohannes Afework has died at the age of 72. He is known for making the indigenous instrument popular and fashionable across the world.
Yohannes died at his home in Addis Ababa on Monday. The veteran musician was reportedly sick. He suffered from memory loss, blood pressure and diabetes.
Yohannes is one of the first musicians to take the washint to the global stage. This instrument, which is traditionally played by shepherds, is made of bamboo and has four finger-holes.
Yohannes Afework will be remembered for playing with Orchestra Ethiopia, a band that played Ethiopian folk music. The band was formed in 1963. […] CONTINUE READING
