D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities

The D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities organized a New Years event on Wednesday December 31st, 2008 at the Historical Society of Washington. The event was titled “Arts Eve D.C.” At the event, Ethiopians, Italians, Mexicans, and Koreans showcased their traditions and music.

The Ethiopian music and dance was represented by “The African Band.” The band included four ancient instrument players: Melaku Habit-Gebereal playing the Kebero, Fantahun Melese playing the Kerar, and Gezachew Teklemariam playing the Masinko, and Getachew playing the Washint.

The band also had one powerful vocalist, Serawitu Lemma and three mesmerizing dancers: Freihwot Dessu, Wasihun Kebede, and Brook.

The three dancers also thought the audiences how to dance.

Both the performance and the dance class were loved by the audiences and participants. "The African Band" is manages and promoted by Selam Global Enterprises. Arts Eve DC was organized by D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities and DESHO Productions.

Please check our website for future performances near you.

Picture by Matt Andrea

Maritu Legesse

Matitu Legesse, one of The African Band members, traveled around the world to introduce Ethiopian music internationally. See video -

The Band Members

We, SGE team members, promote The African Band, which has eleven band members. The group is very well experienced in performing to international and university audiences. They play five ancient and mesmerizing instruments. They have four amazing dancers and two experienced vocalists.

We are also able to provide one person to explain the show and the clothing to your audience. We can also provide eight, four or one band members, but we suggest the full band for the complete representation of East African music and dance also for the discounted prices.

For more information on The African Band or if you would like the band to perform contact Selam Legesse at (202) 299-4958 or Selam7@gmail.com

Pictures of the African Band Members