Students of Eman Begena School sing songs as they carry their begenas on a taxi bus heading to perform at a begena therapy session in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Photo: AFP Biruktawit Tasew's fingers glide ...

Biruktawit Tasew’s fingers glide over the strings of the begena, producing a deep, hypnotic sound. Along with six fellow musicians, she breaks into a solemn religious melody, holding their audience ...

In the past, most Ethiopians were acquainted with the begena as a traditional musical instrument during the time of Lent, when it was constantly played over the radio, particularly during the reigns ...

Talking on any subject with Alemu Aga, one cannot help but be taken aback by the exceptionally smooth and enchanting tone in which the veteran begena performer utters his measured responses. Of course ...