Israel

Esta
Esta is a multi-ethnic Israeli ensemble with a unique blend of original music and innovative sound that draws on the diverse cultures of Israel. Esta's members have been the most important forerunners contributing to the exploration of Israel 's amazing original roots since the group formed in 1983. An instrumental group for more than 18 years, Esta welcomed lead singer Yarona Harel in 2000 and expanded its repertoire to include her powerful vocals. All Esta members were born first generation in Israel and they are deeply influenced by the musical traditions of their parents' generation who were immigrants from Bulgaria, Iraq, Poland, Iran, Romania, Russia, and Turkey. With this background, Esta has created a rich, hot, musical stew simmering with Middle Eastern, Balkan, Mediterranean, Jewish, Celtic, African influences while also drawing from contemporary rock and roll and jazz. Esta has performed widely including a special performance at The White House for and with former President Bill Clinton. Other notable performances include the Blue Note in NYC, the House of Blues in Los Angeles, Cité De La Music in Paris, and Dranouter Festival in Belgium to name a just a few.

The members of Esta (in alphabetical order) are:
Ori Beanstock, Shlomo Deshet, Bentzi Gafni, Amir Gwirtzman, and Yarona Harel

Music from Esta:
There are two great places to listen to Esta's music online, the first is on the sounds page of Esta's Official Web site, and the second is on the Arts Midwest World Fest Myspace Page.

Resources:
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More information about Esta can be found at Esta's Official Web site.