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"RAS DESHEN"

The Ethiopian Israeli jazz ensemble, “Ras Deshen”, featuring Abate (pictured above) on tenor and soprano sax and vocals, performed a concert of jazz improvisation on traditional Ethiopian music at the Jerusalem Cultures Center on August 6th, 2002. The group’s name is taken from “Ras Deshen", the highest mountain in Ethiopia (4,620 meters) that is the heart of the ancient Jewish Ethiopian community.

Abate, the leader of Ras Deshen, is a well known Ethiopian musician that has performed throughout Europe. He is an expert on traditional Ethiopian music and Jewish religious music that is sung in the synagogue in Ethiopia by the Kesim (similar to "cohanim" - priests). Abate and other Ethiopian immigrant musicians represent the return of black African Jews with their music and culture to Israel after 2000 years in the Diaspora.

Yitzhak Yedid, the group's pianist, has performed in the US and Europe. His "Full Moon Fantasy" CD is an original composition that incorporates Middle Eastern motifs, jazz and classical music. A graduate of the Rubin Academy, Yedid studied and recorded with Paul Bley at the New England Conservatory.

Maleseh Fantahon, percussionist, will play the "Krar" that provides the rhythm and authentic feeling of the music. The "Krar" is similar to the ancient "nevel" harp.

The evening will open with wine tasting and cheese with music by the Johnny Mayer Quintet. For tickets and information, contact the Cultures Center at 02-624-9179.

The Israel Jazz Showcase is dedicated to helping develop and promote Israeli jazz through a series of "showcase" performances. Each program will present several jazz ensembles that will be reviewed by music writers for publication in magazines, newspapers and websites.

Tickets are NIS 30 ($6.50). For info, contact us.