Zema Begena

Zema Begena

+Begena ETH Orthodox Tewahedo+

12 ratings
10 reviews
Free

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • June 12, 2026
  • August 1, 2026

Features

Zema Begena screenshot #1 for iPhone
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Zema Begena screenshot #9 for iPhone
Zema Begena screenshot #10 for iPhone
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About

Explore the ancient Ethiopian Begena box-lyre with this app. Learn to play traditional hymns through interactive, gamified lessons. Record your voice, layer it with the instrument, and export your performances as videos.

Authentic Begena sound and playability
Gamified hymn practice
Record and layer vocals
Video export of performances
Configure scales and string settings
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What's New in Zema Begena

2.1

August 1, 2026

+++ New Hymns +++ 1. Preloaded 3 new Mezmur's (Spiritual Hymns) including > Balewuletaye > Begetesemane > Abetu Deg sew 2. Corrected the scale other some metadata of existing Hymns. Added the most frequent controls to the home page. 1. Dual Mode, Kirar Mode and Hide strings Toggles added: Introduced a new toggle button (Kirar icon) on the homescreen. It safely manages the transition between standard "Begena Mode" (restoring the 2,3,1,5,4,2 physical string order) and "Kirar Mode", You now also have the ability to manage the visibility of the unused strings via the "Eyeball" Button. You can also activate Adam (Dual Begena mode) straight from the homescreen Image Sheet Export Overhaul: 1. Horizontal Timeline Layout: Completely rewrote the Canvas drawing logic to render sheet music horizontally (left-to-right), automatically widening the canvas for longer songs. 2. Active String Filtering: The export now intelligently maps the 10 physical strings to just the 5 actively played strings, drawing a clean 5-track sheet. 3. Aesthetic Enhancements: The sheet layout now overhauled with details about performer, scale used etc. Core Audio & Video Export: 1. High-Fidelity Audio Synthesis: Replaced math-based audio synthesis with direct waveform resampling of the begena assets, providing a much more authentic instrument sound in exported videos. 2. Video Volume Controls: Added precise volume sliders (0% to 300%) in Settings to independently control Microphone Audio and Digital Begena audio levels. Tuner Improvements: 1. Revamped the whole Tuner to include scale presets. 2. Added missing sharp notes to the Root Note selection list.

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User reviews

Lots of features

I was surprised to see so many features available on this app. It is very user-friendly and well-designed. I haven’t began using it but this is my impression as of now.

I like it

It’s a better app for learning orthodox mezmurs

Amazing app!

I love the Learn feature because it makes discovering and mastering the begena more accessible and enjoyable. It’s a beautiful way to engage with this traditional Ethiopian instrument and practice songs and mezmur. I also appreciate the Kirar Mode option in the settings. Congratulations on creating an inspiring app that helps preserve and celebrate Ethiopian traditions!
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Betam tekami app

Proud of the app

The app sounds like the authentic Begena and is best for practicing Kignits

Developer apps

FAQ

What is Zema Begena?

Zema Begena is a digital application that provides access to the Begena, a sacred ten-stringed box-lyre from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It allows users to learn and play traditional hymns interactively.

How does Zema Begena help with learning hymns?

It features a gamified hymn practice system that helps users master traditional Ethiopian Orthodox hymns. This system focuses on timing, memorizing strings, and progressing through skill levels.

Can I record my own voice with Zema Begena?

Yes, Zema Begena includes a built-in recording feature that allows you to sing along as you play the Begena. You can then capture your vocal praise layered over your instrument tracks.

What are the supported scales in Zema Begena?

The app supports traditional pentatonic scales built directly into the Begena, including Tizita, Bati, Ambassel, and Anchihoye. Users can also configure string colors and positioning.

Can I share my performances from Zema Begena?

Absolutely. Zema Begena allows you to easily export your recorded performances into high-quality videos, which you can then share with friends, family, or on social media.

What devices is Zema Begena available on?

Zema Begena is available for iPhone, iPad, and iPod. It is designed to offer a portable spiritual musical experience.

How often is Zema Begena updated?

The app was last updated on July 24, 2026, with version 2.0. This indicates active development and potential for future improvements and content additions.

Does Zema Begena have ads?

No, Zema Begena is ad-free. This provides an uninterrupted experience for users focused on learning and spiritual practice.