March 17,2025
Borkena
Toronto – Alemayehu Fanta, one of the giants in traditional Ethiopian music, passed away last Monday. He was prominent for his mastery of traditional Ethiopian musical instruments, the masinko and begena.
He was also known for his patriotic Ethiopian songs. He taught music at Yared Music School in Addis Ababa for about 40 years, according to sources. He continued to contribute even after his retirement.
According to sources, he fell about six months ago and had been receiving treatment since then.
“He was renowned for his unique singing style while playing the masinko and represented Ethiopia across the globe, proudly promoting our rich cultural heritage. His loss is a profound one for the Ethiopian music community and beyond,” wrote Munit Mesfin on her social media page.
Alemayehu was laid to rest at St. George Cathedral in Addis Ababa.
__