Sidiki & Balla Diabaté

Griots, whose role is comparable to that of the troubadours in medieval Europe, were already court musicians in the great empires of the African Mande peoples in the early Middle Ages, and were seen as guardians of knowledge and history, as well as advising rulers both secular and religious. Toumani Diabaté represents the 71st generation of one of Africa’s leading musician dynasties, and is acknowledged today as one of the world’s best kora players. Diabaté is already passing on his skill to his sons Sidiki and Balla, the next custodians of this great tradition.

Please note:
Alongside his son Sidiki, Toumani Diabaté was to open the series »Klassik der Welt«. Toumani Diabaté has regrettably had to cancel his appearance in the Elbphilharmonie Recital Hall due to illness. His son Balla will take his place. Balla and Sidiki Diabaté belong to the youngest generation of the Griot tradition and are already regarded as masters on the Kora.