In case you don’t know what a KORA is…
The kora produces some of the most beautiful sounds I’ve ever heard, with its resonant strings creating a rich tapestry of melodies that can evoke deep emotions. The gentle plucking of the strings, combined with the intricate rhythms, has a way of transporting listeners to a tranquil state, making it a truly captivating experience.
Each note seems to dance through the air, shimmering like sunlight on water, as the musician skillfully navigates the instrument’s complex musical landscape.
I first learned about the Kora from the book and TV mini-series “ROOTS” by Alex Haley, where Kunta Kinte was trying to describe this amazing instrument to his daughter, who didn’t totally understand him, calling a guitar a “ko.” The moment when I first heard this instrument, played by the amazing TOUMANI DIABATE, was an experience I would never forget.
the melodious sounds lifted my spirit and transported me to the heart of West Africa, where the Kora has deep cultural significance. This remarkable instrument, with its 21 strings stretching across a large calabash resonator, represents a rich musical tradition that has survived through generations. However, I never thought I would get an opportunity to learn to play it, as its intricate strings and unique structure seemed daunting to a novice like me, filled with uncertainty and self-doubt… Until the opportunity literally fell into my lap earlier today.
It started ordinarily enough; I had an early morning Filipino Martial Arts lesson at KAILUKUAN, followed by a delightful lunch with my teacher Virgil at TOKYO CENTRAL. You know, just another Saturday filled with physical activity and culinary enjoyment.
Then, out of nowhere, I learned that KIN Unified Healing, the place next door to KAILUKUAN, was having a workshop on how to play the KORA, about 15 minutes before it started! The excitement rushed through me, prompting an immediate decision to attend this unexpected event. LUNDEN KORA from Motherland Music taught an introductory course on how to play the KORA, where he eloquently shared insights about its history and significance in West African heritage, while engaging us with captivating stories of master players. He led us through some basic skills, guiding our fingers to navigate the strings, and started teaching us a traditional song from Mali, Bani le.
The experience was truly eye-opening, igniting a newfound passion within me to explore this beautiful instrument and embrace the rich cultural depths it represents. As I delved deeper into the intricacies of its creation and the craftsmanship behind it, I found myself captivated by the stories woven into its strings. The sounds it produces resonate not only with my ears but also deep within my soul, sparking an insatiable curiosity about its history and significance in various traditions around the world, revealing the diverse ways in which different cultures connect through music. Hopefully, Lunden will hold more workshops at KIN, or at MOTHERLAND MUSIC, settings that create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, where we’ll get to learn more about this amazing instrument, given to us by the angels, allowing us not only to hone our skills but also to forge connections with fellow enthusiasts who share this profound love for music and its ability to transcend barriers.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 