Toumani Diabaté kora - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Toumani Diabaté is a world-renowned kora player from Mali. He comes from a long line of griots, who are traditional West African musicians and storytellers.
- 2. The kora is a West African string instrument that is similar to a harp or lute. It has 21 strings and a large gourd body.
- 3. Diabaté began playing the kora at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skill and talent.
- 4. He has collaborated with a wide range of musicians from different genres, including jazz, classical, and pop. Some of his notable collaborations include albums with Ali Farka Touré, Taj Mahal, and Björk.
- 5. Diabaté has released several solo albums, including "Kaira" and "The Mande Variations," which have received critical acclaim and won numerous awards.
- 6. He is known for his innovative and virtuosic playing style, which combines traditional West African music with elements of jazz, blues, and other genres.
- 7. Diabaté is also a respected composer and has written many original pieces for the kora, as well as arrangements of traditional West African songs.
- 8. In addition to his solo work, Diabaté is a founding member of the Symmetric Orchestra, a group that blends traditional Malian music with modern influences.
- 9. Diabaté has performed at major music festivals around the world, including the WOMAD festival and the Glastonbury Festival.
- 10. He is considered one of the greatest kora players of his generation and has been instrumental in bringing West African music to a global audience.