Kora

The Kora is the most popular musical instrument 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 included parts of the Gambia,the Casamance region of Southern Senegal, Guinea and Guinea Bissau.

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The body of the kora is made of a large gourd which has been cut in half 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.

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.

• 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 Guest Book or simply call toll free from anywhere in the U.S. to 1.866.525.4922.