One of the most melodious string instruments I've ever heard - the Kora, a 21-string harp-lute used extensively in West Africa. Kora players have traditionally come from griot families (also from the Mandinka nationalities) who are traditional historians, genealogists and storytellers who pass their skills on to their descendants.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kora_(instrument)
Hear the Kora live at a recent concert of Shoonya, where French-speaking African students in the city performed along with Djembe Ashok's band - fantastic!
A beautiful 8-minute video where Toumani Diabate presents the kora, demonstrates various styles and how the instrument is made, and plays pieces from his latest album.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrEPm04v9Mk&feature=related
Elyne Road, a favorite piece:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SVAPvnR0og&feature=related
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