Balafon and Kora, Instruments of West Africa

Pictures of the performance were prohibited, so please imagine the musicians: four of West Africa’s most celebrated artists honoring Mandé Sila, the way of the Mandingo empire. On the marimba-like balafon, Aly Keïta; in the empty chair, Habib Koité with his guitar; on the harp-like kora, Lamine Cissokho; and Mama Kone on percussion. Sounds I’d never heard before, sounds that evoked other times and places, tradition and innovation, unparalleled energy.

It was only two days ago in this same room that we heard visionary South African jazz pianist Nduduzo Makhathini. When I say the music of this Zulu healer, educator, and composer is transcendental, I mean I was truly shown another plane. I don’t know how to convey this experience; I don’t have the musical vocabulary to explain what was happening with harmony, rhythm, melody, only that I was so grateful to be there, to be transported to a place of hope and such joy.

We are so lucky to have a respected jazz venue in our town; to be able to hear extraordinary players in such an intimate setting is a gift that I sometimes forget to appreciate.