The Kora is the classical instrument of West African jalis (griots), the historical keepers of oral tradition and praise songs. It is a twenty-one stringed instrument played with both hands like a harp. It is often accompanied by singing and percussion. The unforgettable music is soothing, almost hypnotic, and is said to have very real curative properties.
Our Kora musicians are members of the
Jobarteh family, who trace their ancestry back seven generations. Interested members of the tours can try out the instrument and begin to learn one or two of the praise songs.
Everyone will enjoy the soothing Kora music, and a day trip to the Jobarteh family compound sixty miles up the Gambia River in Farafenni may be arranged.
Explore the Balafon
Jobo Kunda is happy to add the Balafon to its musical offerings. This indigenous African instrument is a xylophone made of wood and gourd resonators which is played with mallets. The balafon is an instrument of the society of Jaliyaa, the traditional oral historians of the Mandinka. Our teacher Kebba Manneh comes from a balafon playing family.
Guests who wish to study balafon must pre-order instrument
to be ready for their use on arrival in the Gambia.
Talk to Gray.Bongo
This percussion instrument is like a large thumb piano (20x12x4 inches) and is played by plucking the keys with one hand and slapping with the other. It is played along with story or song as a solo instrument, or in ensembles. Sanna Kamara teaches bongo.
Guests studying Bongo must pre-order an instrument
to be ready for their use on arrival in the Gambia.
Talk to Gray.Bugarabu Drumming
The drumming of the Jola people, Bugarabu puts one person behind three or more drums. Guests will be introduced to several rhythms, and will be encouraged to attend live performances which occur with weddings and other family gatherings. Sanna Kamara teaches Bugarabu.
Guests must pre-order their own drums.
Talk to Gray.