About this Event
Legendary Ethio-Jazz Saxophonist GIRMA WOLDEMICHAEL Announces Album Release Concert for NAFQOTÉ - Saturday, May 9th, 2026 at The Redwood Theatre, Toronto
Celebrated Ethio-Jazz pioneer Girma Woldemichael will take the stage at the Redwood Theatre in Toronto for a special live concert celebrating the release of his new album, NAFQOTÉ. This highly anticipated performance brings together generations of musical influence, blending the rich traditions of Ethiopian music with contemporary global sounds.
A central figure from the golden age of Ethio-Jazz, Woldemichael’s journey is one of extraordinary resilience and artistic triumph. Born in Ethiopia under conditions of extreme poverty, he was raised in an orphanage in Addis Ababa. It was there that at age 13 he was given his first pair of shoes, and shortly thereafter handed his first musical instrument, a clarinet, told to learn it, and aim to make a living by playing music.
A few years later, now also playing the saxophone and immersed in the vibrant local Ethio-Jazz scene—a genre that fuses Ethiopia’s distinctive pentatonic scales with jazz, funk, soul, and Latin rhythms—Woldemichael became a sought-after saxophonist. He performed alongside some of Ethiopia’s most iconic artists, including Aster Aweke, Mahmoud Ahmed, Alemayehu Eshete, and Tilahun Gessesse, and was a member of the renowned Ethio Stars band led by Mulatu Astatke.
Following the political upheaval of 1974, when Ethiopia’s Derg regime suppressed much of the country’s artistic expression, Woldemichael fled to Canada as a refugee. Settling in Toronto, he balanced the challenges of immigrant life—supporting his family while working as a taxi driver—with an unwavering dedication to music. Over the years, he continued to perform across Canada, the United States, and internationally, collaborating with leading Ethiopian artists and keeping the spirit of Ethio-Jazz alive.
Now, with his family grown, Woldemichael has returned to music full-time, leading his own band. His new album, NAFQOTÉ, marks an exciting new chapter, featuring a collaboration with acclaimed hip-hop producer Arthur McArthur—a Juno Award winner and Grammy nominee known for his work with major international artists including Drake, Wiz Khalifa, and Logic.
Together, they create a vibrant musical dialogue that bridges cultures, generations, and genres.
This special evening promises an unforgettable celebration of Ethio-Jazz—honouring its roots while pushing its boundaries into bold new territory.
Concert Details:
Event: NAFQOTÉ Album Release Concert
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Doors: 7:00 pm
Show: 8:00 pm
Venue: Redwood Theatre, 1300 Gerrard St. East, Toronto
Tickets: $20 advance includes fees / $25 door
https://Girma9May26.eventbrite.ca
- Melat Mengesha — Guest Vocals
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Redwood Theatre, 1300 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, Canada
CAD 20.00
