The Kora

The Kora is one of the most popular musical instruments associated with the work of griots outside of Africa. It is believed to have been created in the Senegambian region by the Mandinka People of the Kaabu Empire. The Empire of Kaabu (a.k.a Gaabu) included parts of the Gambia,the Casamance region of Southern Senegal, Guinea and Guinea Bissau.There are several legends associated with the how the first Kora came into existence. Almost all of these legends agree that a griot named Jali Madi Wuleng was the one who introduced it to the world.

The body of the kora is made of a large gourd which has been cut open and covered with hide. The neck pierces the body of the gourd and forms a tailpiece on which the Kora rests. On each side of the neck are two hand grips made of the same wood as the neck.

The strings are attached to the neck via several woven rawhide collars. The kora is played by the index finger and thumb of both hands: the remaining fingers are used to hold onto the handgrips.

Baba offers Kora workshops on techniques such as fingering, tuning, song interpretation and history. Baba supplies Koras for the workshops from his own inventory. If you are interested in participating, organizing a workshop or series of workshops in your area, or inquiring on private workshop sessions contact us.

Sound File of Baba playing the Kora:

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

• The Ancient Craft of Jaliyaa
• An Introduction to Orature
• Origin of the Word Griot
• Origin of the Jali
• Language of the Jali
• Historical Role of the Jali
• Social Role of the Jali
• Musical Instrumentation of the Jali
• Contemporary Jaliyaa
• Slideshow of a Kora Ceremony for one of Baba’s Students
• Baba’s Suggested Reading List

Thank you for taking the time to explore the ancient craft of Jaliyaa a little further. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the artist, Baba the Storyteller, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can fill out our Contact Form or simply call toll free from anywhere in the U.S. to 1.866.525.4922.