Ethiopian music is defined by its artisanal instruments, which have remained largely unchanged for generations:
Much of the country's musical heritage is grounded in the . In the 6th century, Saint Yared developed the Zema , a system of liturgical chant that is still practiced today. This sacred music uses specific notation and traditional instruments like the kebero (large drum) and maqwamiya (prayer stick) to lead congregations in worship. Traditional Instruments ethiopian music
: A single-stringed bowed lute often played by azmari (wandering minstrels) who improvise lyrics to entertain or offer social commentary. Ethiopian music is defined by its artisanal instruments,
The four most prominent genres (or kiñits ) within this system include: Saint Yared developed the Zema