adem
d'ethnomusicologie
Kora mandingue
Sankoum Cissokho
Africa | Instruments & repertories
The traditional kora is a musical instrument that belongs to the family of African harps. Originating from the Mandingue Empire, its earliest traces date back to the late 15th century in the Sahel region of Africa.
The kora’s structure includes a resonator made from half a gourd covered with a stretched cowhide. Traditionally, the 21 strings, made from animal gut, are attached to the instrument’s neck using leather rings. These strings are stretched on either side of a wooden bridge that sits upright on the skin covering the gourd.
To play the kora, the musician uses two wooden handles attached to either side of the instrument. By gripping these handles with three fingers of each hand, the musician leaves their thumbs and index fingers free to pluck the strings, producing the kora’s distinctive sound.
Bio
Sankoum Cissokho was born in Dakar, Senegal, into a renowned family of griots, the traditional custodians of music and oral storytelling in West Africa. As the grandson of the legendary kora player Soundioulou Cissokho, he was introduced to this emblematic instrument at a young age by his father, Bacary Cissokho. From his childhood, Sankoum has been immersed in a rich musical tradition that he continues to preserve and enrich over the years.
With exceptional mastery of the kora, Sankoum combines technique, sensitivity, and creativity. His repertoire bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, blending ancient melodies with contemporary compositions. His playing is distinguished by deep expressiveness, combining finesse and virtuosity.
Having lived in Switzerland for several years, Sankoum is an active participant in the local music scene, collaborating with various artists and performing regularly. He has also toured across Europe and Asia, sharing his music with international audiences.
Throughout his career, Sankoum Cissokho has shared the stage with iconic figures such as Salif Keita, Femi Kuti, Tiken Jah Fakoly, Orchestra Baobab, Xalam II, and the Geneva Camerata, showcasing his talent and artistic versatility.
PLACE:
Ateliers d'ethnomusicologie - 10, rue de Montbrillant - 1201 Geneva or at home
SCHEDULE:
Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm or by arrangement
RATES:
Individual lessons
1 lesson : 60 min. : 110 frs / 90 min. 140 frs
Subscription for 10 lessons of 60 min. 950 frs / 90 min. : 1'260 frs
Group lessons for 2-4 people
1 class : 60 min. 65 frs / 90 min. : 85 frs
Subscription for 10 lessons of 60 min. 585 frs / 90 min. 765 frs
Children: duration and price to be discussed
Possibility of paying subscription in 2 instalments
Possibility of buying a kora
CONTACT:
T : 078 967 75 49 (or 078 675 41 10 in case of no answer)
Email : kayroba@bluewin.ch
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