THE SPIRIT OF THE MANDIKA KORA

Derek Gripper

Derek Gripper took on an incredible challenge: to transcribe the virtuosic compositions of the most famous Malian kora players for the classical guitar!

The result was far from a straight cover. In fact, a profoundly original music sprung forth from beneath this South African musician’s fingers, a music that compels us to shift how we listen to both the kora and guitar, the music of West Africa and that of the classical Western tradition, from Bach to jazz.

This is a real tour de force, challenging technical difficulties while revealing pure poetry of tones. An extraordinary metamorphosis also takes place, where the spirit of the kora inhabits each note, each rhythm and harmony. It’s as if Derek has brought a hybrid instrument to life that will tell us the fabulous tales of Africa’s griots.

Derek Gripper : guitar

This concert is followed by the Eastern Exchanges, Duo Vasilis Kostas et Layth Sidiq.

This concert is recoded by RTS - Espace 2.

Download the Concert program Notes