Jorga Mesfin who grew up in a house filled with jazz records, mostly the greats immersed in the melodies of John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, Kassa Tessema, Dr. Mulatu Astatke, and Jimmy Smith, his early musical influences laid the foundation for a profound connection with Ethio Jazz, with Dr. Mulatu Astatke standing out as his paramount inspiration. Jorga’s affinity for the saxophone found resonance in the sounds of John Coltrane and Getachew Mekuria, while Emahoy TsegeMaraiam’s piano style further developed his musical palette.

His musical journey commenced with childhood improvisations, using the table as a makeshift piano. Recognizing his passion, Jorga’s mother enrolled him at Yared Music School at the age of 12, marking the beginning of formal piano lessons. The unavailability of saxophones in Ethiopia prompted him to wait until the age of 14, when a move to India for education allowed him to acquire his first saxophone from his high school.

Jorga’s love for the saxophone persisted through his college years. While pursuing a BA in Chemistry at Guilford College in the United States and later obtaining a Masters at Emory University, he found solace in the language of music. Initially engaged with the Ministry of Health in the states, his trajectory shifted in 2006, transitioning into a full-time musician with over two decades of experience.

Starting his musical journey at a young age, he has collaborated with renowned artists such as Tsegaye Gebremedhin and Vijay Iyer. As the founder of the Ethio-jazz group Wudasse, he also composed the music for the acclaimed film “Teza.” His work on “Teza” earned him the Best Music Award at the 22nd Carthage Film Festival and Best Composition at the 5th Dubai International Film Festival.