TEIMAN - Musicians bios -

Yamma

Talya G.A Solan is an independent Israeli singer, songwriter & producer.
Talya graduated magna cum laude from the Faculty of Arts in Tel Aviv University. She founded the Yamma Ensemble and the Israeli Ethnic Ensemble, with whom she released six albums and continues to perform worldwide. She also took part in various international musical collaborations (Kedem Ensemble, Jean-Louis Matinier). Her influences and inspiration derive from ancient times, tribal singing, sacred and secular Jewish chants, and exotic natural Middle Eastern flavors.

Michal Zandani is an alto singer and a dynamic, high-energy singer-songwriter. Her warm, low vocal tone, captivating presence, and adventurous spirit allow her to move naturally between diverse musical landscapes while maintaining a distinct and soulful identity. In the Yamma Teiman ensemble, Michal performs songs from her family home and the Yemeni roots of her heritage. Her vibrant energy comes to life on stage, in performances woven with charm, grace, joy, and a constant smile.

Sharon Kenzey is a singer-songwriter whose Middle Eastern roots draw her toward the musical traditions of the region, particularly Yemeni music. A graduate of the Maqamat school in Safed, her vocal expression is characterized by softness, natural phrasing, and a gentle, nuanced tone. Her voice weaves supportive and humble harmonies, bringing emotional depth and a subtle presence to the musical landscape.

David Cohen is an accomplished musician whose soul is deeply intertwined with Yemeni heritage and Middle Eastern culture. His journey with the Oud, an ancient, fretless instrument, began ten years ago after a long exploration of various musical instruments. A dedicated autodidact, David has spent years independently researching the secrets of the Oud and its musical nuances. His exploration goes beyond the music itself, as he deeply studies Arabic culture, language, and the Middle Eastern way of life to bring true authenticity to his art. The Oud’s unique ability to produce microtonality allows David to express the traditional nuances and “quarter-tones” that define the region’s authentic sound. David is influenced by Khaliji rhythms, Turkish melodies, and Jazz improvisations.

Avri Borochov was born into a family of artists and musicians. He is a gifted double bass player, musical arranger, producer, and sound designer. Upon graduation from the New School in New York, where he majored in jazz composition and performance, Avri was already involved as an influential musician in major musical productions in Israel. Thanks to his broad musical knowledge, clean expression, elegant and precise touch, and the diversity and musical richness from which he is nourished, Borochov has become one of the most brilliant and fascinating musicians in the Israeli music scene.

Amiel Vanzelbaum Amiel’s percussion setup is constructed as a complete “drum kit,” composed of traditional hand drums and ancient instruments that evoke a tribal, primordial sound. Alongside the Yemeni “Tin” (Pah) — so deeply identified with the roots of the tradition — Amiel incorporates frame drums, Darbuka, and cymbals. Rhythm and percussion are fundamental pillars in the performance of Yemenite song. Through profound expertise and an exceptional sensitivity to sound, Amiel provides the precise and mesmerizing heartbeat at the core of Yamma Teiman’s enchanting music.