TEZETA IS A SONG FORM FAMOUS IN ETHIO-JAZZ.  

IN AMHARIC IT TRANSLATES TO “MY MEMORY,” 

BUT IT MEANS MUCH MORE. IT CONVEYS A SENSE 

OF NOSTALGIA THAT CAN BE LOST IN 

TRANSLATION.

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ABOUT THE DOCUMENTARY

This documentary explores the collective 

reminiscence of Ethiopian Armenians from their 

own perspectives, as well as others touched 

by their profound legacy.

From the times of Emperor Haile Selassie I and the Arba Lijoch (40 adopted Armenian orphans who comprised his imperial orchestra) to the legendary Ethio-jazz singer Alèmayèhu Eshèté, Armenians have long been intertwined with the musical and cultural history of Ethiopia. Kevork Nalbandian—composer of the first Ethiopian national anthem, his nephew Nerses—jazz musician and instructor, and his children, Vartkes and Salpi—both musicians and business owners, have all left their mark on the musical landscape of Ethiopia. 

Presently, Vahé Tilbian, a fourth-generation Ethio-Armenian music performer, struggles with questions of ethnic identity and the viability of leading a life in an increasingly adverse cultural and economic climate. Their small community has dwindled and continues to shrink. Law enforcement, land developers, and collective amnesia are threatening the memory of Ethio-Armenians’ contributions to Ethiopian culture and, subsequently, the existence of Armenians in Ethiopia.

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WHY I WANT TO MAKE THIS DOCUMENTARY?

As an Armenian-American, I know the qualities of living as a diasporan in exile of an unreachable homeland. Due to persecution, Armenians have dispersed over the centuries to many regions, including some lesser-known nations such as India, Jordan, Sudan and Ethiopia. This has created an unparalleled diversity amongst Armenians worldwide. Now, the cohesive Armenian community in Addis Ababa is struggling to preserve their contribution to Ethiopian culture.

I am documenting the Armenian legacy in Ethiopia, namely the large role the community played in the development of Ethiopian modern music and craftsmanship throughout the last century. The documentary will include interviews of Ethio-Armenians around the world, as well as in Addis Ababa. I have also gained access to some legendary Ethio-Jazz musicians, including elders such as singer Alèmayèhu Eshèté (lovingly called the Elvis Presley of Ethiopia) as well as some of the new generation of jazz artists who have benefitted from the musical foundation laid by Nerses Nalbandian, like Samuel Yirga. With the steady diminishing population of Armenians in different countries, including Armenia, I truly believe that the documentation of the Armenian legacy in Ethiopia is timely and relevant.

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WHAT YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL FUND

To meet our initial minimum amount for filming we have set our goal to $10,000. In order to make the best film possible we need to start by raising at least $30,000 for production costs. This includes: 

• Crew Hire, Equipment and Media Storage
• Research and Editing
• Sound Mastering
• Composer for an Original Score
• Closed Captioning
• Travel + Lodging to Conduct Interviews
• Website & Digital Download
• Footage and Music Copyrights 

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FAQ

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON'T REACH YOUR GOAL?

Nothing happens—no money is transferred and no money is raised. We either make it or we don't. 

WHAT MAKES YOU THINK YOU CAN DO THIS?

You do. Your donation can help to document an Armenian community that has added so much to the flavor of Ethiopian arts and culture.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?

We have a range of offerings for every level of sponsorship, from hugs and postcards to signed limited edition prints and a private meal with the director and associate producer.  

I AM A WORKING AS A GARDENER BUT HAVE LITTLE GREEN . HOW CAN I HELP?

Even if you have little, sharing this documentary with friends and family who have a passion for music and culture is a gift in and of itself.

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THANK YOU!

አመሰግናለሁ!

Շնորհակալ՛ եմ։

Below are examples of some rewards for your generous contributions.