What is a Kora?

A kora is a traditional West African string instrument that combines features of a harp and a lute. The instrument has a large calabash gourd covered with animal skin that acts as a resonating body, with a long wooden neck extending upward. Strings are attached to the neck and stretched over a bridge, producing a clear and flowing sound when plucked.

A traditional kora typically has 21 strings that are played using the thumbs and index fingers of both hands. The musician holds the instrument upright and plucks the strings to create complex melodic patterns, bass lines, and rhythmic textures at the same time. This technique allows a single player to perform intricate and layered musical arrangements.

The kora has been an important instrument in the musical traditions of West Africa for centuries. It is often associated with griots, who are storytellers and musicians responsible for preserving history and cultural traditions through music. Today, the kora continues to be used in traditional performances as well as modern world music and international collaborations.