Don’t miss the chance to witness the incredible talents of Ballaké Sissoko and Derek Gripper as they bring their “A New African String Theory” South African Tour to the Market Theatre in Johannesburg in June. This tour marks their first time performing in South Africa, following successful concerts in various countries around the world.
Ballaké Sissoko, a renowned kora player from Mali, has established himself as one of the greatest in the field. Derek Gripper, on the other hand, is a leading guitarist from South Africa who has dedicated himself to transcribing and recording the beautiful works of the kora.
Together, their collaboration weaves a complex tapestry of melodies and variations, presenting a fresh perspective on African string music.
Joburg residents make sure to mark your calendars for June 20 and 21, 2024, and make your way to the Chris Seabrooke Music Hall in Braamfontein and the Baxter Theatre, as this is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of these two extraordinary artists. Additionally, they will also be performing in Durban on June 14 at Playhouse 16, and in Cape Town on June 18 and 19 at the Baxter Theatre.
In collaboration with the Alliance Francais and Air
France.
Interval: 15 minutes
Malian virtuoso Ballaké Sissoko has taken over the mantle of the greatest touring kora player. Derek Gripper is South Africa’s leading guitarist whose love of the kora set him transcribing and recording some of its greatest works. “In the complex web of theme and variations spun by Sissoko’s
twenty-two strings and Gripper’s six, a new African string theory is elaborated. Derek Gripper writes, derekgripper.com
Who is Derek Gripper?
I must admit, I feel quite embarrassed that I was unaware of Derek’s existence, especially considering my passion for music. So, to whoever has been keeping Derek’s talent hidden from me, I playfully express my disappointment. However, I understand that others like me may not be acquainted with Derek. Hailing from Cape Town, South Africa, Derek is an exceptional guitarist. In his own words, he engages in conversations with people and expresses his creativity through playing the guitar, bridging the gap between African music, classical music, and the essence of artistic expression.
Ballaké Sissoko, Who is he?
“Ten fingers for twenty-one strings, and magic takes place, surely, calmy. Ballak’e Sissoko enlances us in his sauce, crystalline sonority, and kora, magnified by his melodist and improviser talent.”
Ballaké Sissoko, born in 1968, is a renowned Malian Kora player who has collaborated with various artists including Taj Mahal. He began his musical journey at a young age and shared the stage with prominent musicians like Toumani Diabat’e in 1999. In 2000, he formed the trio Mande Tabolo with an n’goni player and balafon player. His 2005 album includes collaborations with Toumani Diabat’e on Kora, vocalists Alboulkadri Barry and Rokia Traore, and Fanga Diawara, the violin soloist of the Mali National Instrumental Ensemble.
Since 2022, Ballaké Sissoko has been engaging in duo concerts with Derek Gripper from South Africa, who has adapted numerous kora pieces for classical guitar.
For additional information regarding the South African Tour in June 2024, titled “A New African String Theory,” please visit Derek’s website where booking details can be located.