What is a Kora Instrument? A Journey into Its Magical Sound

What is a Kora Musical Instrument

The Kora is a musical instrument which is a hybrid combination of a harp, guitar and lute. It is made from African hardwood, a calabash gourd and covered in cow skin to make a resonator.

This West African instrument stands upright, cradled in the player’s lap. With 21 strings, musicians pluck them to release vibrant, melodious sounds.

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In this beginner’s guide, we’ll review what the kora musical instrument is by examining what it sounds like, how it’s played, its long history, its structure, and also explore some of the great tunes and compositions it has produced over its long musical history.

Lets get started with some intersting kora facts that we will further explore within the article.

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Kora Instrument Facts

• The kora is a traditional West African instrument, primarily found in countries like Mali, Senegal, and Guinea.
• A kora typically weighs between 4 to 7 kilograms (9 to 15 pounds), making it relatively light for its size. The dimensions can vary, but it’s generally about 110 to 120 centimeters long (43 to 47 inches).
• In the Hornbostel–Sachs system of musical instrument classification, the kora is classified as a “composite chordophone.” This classification is due to its strings being stretched across a bridge that’s mounted on a resonator, similar to harps and lutes.
• Koras can be quite expensive, with professional instruments costing upwards of a thousand dollars, especially if custom-made or imported.
• There are different types of koras, including variations in the number of strings, with some modern versions having up to 25 strings.
• The kora is used in a variety of musical genres, from traditional West African music to fusion genres like Afro-pop.
• Learning to play the kora traditionally involves oral tradition, where knowledge is passed down from master to apprentice.
• Players of the kora are called “korafola” or “kora players.”

What does an Kora Musical Instrument Sound Like?

The kora produces a rich, melodic sound that combines deep, resonant bass with bright, shimmering ethereal trebles. To explore the enchanting sounds of the kora further, watch the video below where an expert master korafola (kora player) demonstrates its beautiful musical range.

How to Play the Kora Instrument

To play the kora, the musician sits and balances the instrument on their lap, holding it upright. Its construction includes a large calabash gourd cut in half and covered with cowhide, serving as the resonator.

The long, hardwood neck runs through this gourd, with strings running parallel along both sides. These strings, traditionally made from fishing line for their durability and unique sound qualities, span from the top of the neck down to a bridge situated on the gourd’s surface.

Players use their thumbs and index fingers to pluck the strings, employing a method that allows for the simultaneous creation of melody, harmony, and rhythmic patterns.

This technique enables the kora to function both as a solo instrument and as an accompaniment, providing a full and rich musical texture that is both melodious and percussive.

When the strings are plucked, the vibrations are transferred to the bridge and then to the resonator, amplifying the sound.

The unique timbre of the kora, often described as both bright and mellow, is a result of the calabash gourd’s natural acoustics combined with the specific qualities of the strings.

Different Types of Kora Instrument to Learn

There are several types of kora musical instruments available for learners, each with its unique characteristics and playing styles. Here’s a look at the different types and what makes each special:

Standard 21-String Kora

• Pros: Offers the traditional kora sound and playing technique, widely used in West African music.
• Cons: Can be challenging for beginners due to the number of strings and complex tuning.

Student Kora (Less than 21 strings)

• Pros: Easier to learn with fewer strings, making it suitable for beginners.
• Cons: Limited range of notes can restrict the complexity of music that can be played.

Electric Kora

• Pros: Amplifies sound for larger venues, with electronic effects expanding sound possibilities.
• Cons: Requires access to electricity and can be more expensive due to electronic components.

Bass Kora

• Pros: Deeper, richer sound profile, adding a unique bass dimension to kora music.
• Cons: Less traditional sound, and can be bulky to handle.

Double-neck Kora

• Pros: Allows for more complex music with two sets of strings, offering a wide range of melodies and harmonies.
• Cons: Very challenging to master due to the complexity and size of the instrument.

Kora Instrument History

The kora has undergone significant transformation from its early origins among the Mandinka people of West Africa to its current status as a globally recognized musical instrument.

Initially a simple stringed instrument, it has evolved over centuries, incorporating design improvements and technological advancements to expand its musical range and appeal.

Today, the kora stands as a symbol of West African culture, while also embracing modernity and global influences.

Time Period	Kora Historical Development
13th Century	Early versions of the kora appear in West Africa, primarily among the Mandinka people.
16th to 17th Century	The kora begins to evolve into a more refined instrument, with improvements in design and the number of strings.
20th Century	The kora gains international recognition, leading to innovations such as the addition of more strings and electric versions.
21st Century	Modern advancements include electronic amplification and global fusion with various musical genres.

Kora Instrument Description

The kora construction involves several key parts, each crafted from specific materials that contribute to its unique tonal qualities.

• Resonator: The resonator forms the body of the kora and is made from a large calabash gourd. This natural material is chosen for its resonant properties, which amplify the sound of the strings. The gourd is halved and covered with cow skin, creating a drum-like surface that enhances the instrument’s acoustics.
• Neck: The long, hardwood neck extends from the resonator and serves as the backbone of the kora. It is typically made from African hardwoods such as mahogany, which are prized for their durability and ability to withstand the tension of the strings.
• Strings: Traditionally, the kora has 21 strings, made from fishing line or nylon, which offer a bright, clear sound. These strings are divided into two groups, running on either side of the neck, allowing for a wide range of notes and harmonies.
• Bridge: The bridge sits atop the cow skin covering the gourd, transmitting the vibrations of the strings to the resonator. It is often made from hardwood or horn, materials chosen for their density and ability to convey sound efficiently.
• Tuning Pegs: Located along the neck, the tuning pegs are crucial for adjusting the pitch of the strings. These can be made from wood, bone, or modern synthetic materials, each affecting the tuning stability and ease of adjustment.

Famous Kora Players

The kora, with its ethereal sound and deep cultural roots, has been mastered by several musicians who have brought it to global prominence. These artists have not only preserved the instrument’s rich heritage but also introduced it to new audiences worldwide.

Here are five notable musicians from West Africa who have each played a part in elevating the instrument to a global musical audience.

Toumani Diabaté from Mali is perhaps the most renowned kora player globally. A Grammy Award winner, Diabaté comes from a long line of kora players and is celebrated for his innovative playing style and contributions to world music.

Sidiki Diabaté, also from Mali, is the son of Toumani Diabaté and has inherited his father’s exceptional talent. Sidiki has modernized the kora’s sound, blending it with contemporary genres and thus broadening its appeal among younger audiences.

Ballaké Sissoko, another Mali native, is known for his intricate compositions and collaborations with artists from various musical backgrounds. His work has significantly contributed to the fusion of traditional African and Western music.

Sona Jobarteh from The Gambia has broken gender barriers in the traditionally male-dominated world of kora playing. As the first female kora virtuoso to come from a prestigious West African Griot family, she is celebrated for her contributions to music and education.

Seckou Keita from Senegal has been a key figure in introducing the kora to audiences across the globe. His ability to blend different musical traditions with the kora has won him international acclaim and numerous awards.

Traditional Kora Tunes Worth Listening To

If you are enjoying our exploration of the Kora instrument and wish to listen to some traditional compositions, here are five West African tunes you should listen out for.

“Jarabi” (Love Song)

• Composer: Traditional; widely attributed to various artists over generations.
• Date: Exact origins unknown, deeply entrenched in oral tradition.
• About: “Jarabi” translates to ‘passion’ or ‘love’ and is considered one of the most beautiful compositions for the kora. It is a testament to the instrument’s ability to convey deep emotional resonance and lyrical beauty, making it a favorite among kora players and listeners alike.

“Kaira” (Peace)

• Composer: Traditional; popularized by Toumani Diabaté in the late 20th century.
• Date: Although the tune is traditional, its popularization in recorded music dates back to the 1980s.
• About: Meaning ‘peace,’ “Kaira” is a tranquil and uplifting piece that showcases the kora’s ability to produce soothing melodies that invoke a sense of calm and well-being, reflecting the instrument’s role in promoting harmony and social cohesion.

“Toumani”

• Composer: Toumani Diabaté.
• Date: 1988.
• About: A self-titled piece by one of the kora’s most celebrated players, “Toumani” showcases Diabaté’s virtuosic skill and innovative approach to the instrument. The composition blends traditional playing techniques with a contemporary sensibility, marking a significant contribution to the kora’s repertoire.

“Allah l’aake”

• Composer: Traditional, with numerous variations by different artists.
• Date: The composition’s roots are ancient, with its practice spanning several generations.
• About: This spiritual piece, whose title means ‘God is great,’ is often played during religious ceremonies and events. It exemplifies the kora’s role in the spiritual and religious life of West African societies, offering a glimpse into the instrument’s versatility in expressing the divine.

“Djelika”

• Composer: Traditional; brought to prominence by kora masters like Ballaké Sissoko.
• Date: The piece has been part of the oral tradition for centuries, though specific recordings have popularized it in recent decades.
• About: “Djelika” is a vibrant composition celebrating the griot tradition, named after the female griot. It highlights the kora’s capacity for storytelling, weaving intricate melodies that capture the listener’s imagination and transport them to the heart of West African culture.

These compositions not only highlight the technical prowess required to master the kora but also underscore the instrument’s profound cultural significance. Through these tunes, the kora narrates the shared history, values, and aspirations of West African societies, making it an essential pillar of their musical heritage.

The Kora in Popular Culture

The kora, with its distinctive melodic twang and rich harmonic textures, has transcended its traditional West African roots, finding a place in film, television, and even popular rock music.

Its unique sound has enchanted audiences worldwide, weaving its way into compositions that have become recognizable far beyond its cultural origins.

1. “Kothbiro” by Ayub Ogada

• Composer: Ayub Ogada
• Date of Composition: 1993
• About: Featured in the soundtrack of the film “The Constant Gardener,” “Kothbiro” is a hauntingly beautiful melody sung in Dholuo, accompanied by the kora. Ogada’s emotive voice, combined with the kora’s gentle plucking, creates an atmosphere of poignant reflection, making it one of the most memorable compositions in cinema.

2. “Future Days” by Pearl Jam

• Composer: Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam)
• Date of Composition: 2013
• About: Pearl Jam’s “Future Days” features the kora, played by guest musician Youssoupha Sidibe. The song, from their album “Lightning Bolt,” showcases how the kora can blend seamlessly into rock compositions, adding a layer of depth and global resonance that underscores the song’s themes of love and longing.

3. “Ali & Toumani” by Ali Farka Touré and Toumani Diabaté

• Composer: Ali Farka Touré and Toumani Diabaté
• Date of Composition: 2010
• About: Though not a single tune, the album “Ali & Toumani” is a masterpiece collaboration featuring Diabaté’s kora and Touré’s guitar. Their music, which has been featured in various documentaries and films, is a testament to the kora’s versatility and its ability to communicate across genres and cultures.

4. “Miniyamba” by Yeahman, Mina & Hajna

• Composer: Yeahman, Mina & Hajna
• Date of Composition: 2017
• About: “Miniyamba” is a mesmerizing blend of electronic music with traditional sounds, featuring the kora as a pivotal element. This track stands out for its innovative integration of genres, highlighting the kora’s versatility and its resonance with modern audiences.

Instruments Similar to the Kora

While the kora enjoys prominence in West Africa, there are other instruments closely related in spirit and sound worth exploring. Here are three more similar instruments that are worth investigating if you have enjoyed our review.

Ngoni

The ngoni is considered a precursor to the kora and holds a revered place in West African music. This stringed instrument, made from a hollowed-out piece of wood covered with animal skin, has a range of four to seven strings. The ngoni’s sound is brighter and more rhythmic compared to the mellower tones of the kora, offering a percussive backdrop in traditional music settings.

Balafon

The balafon, akin to a wooden xylophone, is another integral instrument in West African music traditions. Constructed with wooden bars laid over gourd resonators, it produces a rich, melodic tone when struck with mallets. The balafon’s resonant, percussive sounds complement the kora’s stringed melodies, often featuring in the same musical ensembles to create layered, rhythmic harmonies.

Djeli Ngoni

A variant of the ngoni, the djeli ngoni has more strings (usually six to eight) and serves a specific role in the Griot (or Djeli) tradition of West Africa, akin to that of the kora. The djeli ngoni is often used to accompany songs and stories told by Griots, historians, and storytellers, preserving oral histories and genealogies. Its sound is deeper and more resonant than that of the standard ngoni, making it suitable for vocal accompaniment.