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Kora or Balafon Workshop

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Kora or Balafon Workshop
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2,000 GMD
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ABOUT Kora or Balafon Workshop

Music is an integral part of the African cultural fabric, serving as a rhythmic heartbeat that resonates with the soul of the continent. My Gambia has created a unique and unforgettable experience for travellers seeking to connect with the vibrant culture of this beautiful region, offering kora or balafon classes. These immersive musical lessons provide travellers with the opportunity not just to see The Gambia but to truly feel it.
workshop
skills
community
culture and tradition

Kora or balafon classes

Start of activity

Your classes will take place in Art Cafe, Kololi, the family compound or another agreed location. 

Your transport to the workshop location can be arranged for an additional price. 

What to expect

from the workshop

The Kora or Balafon workshop shall involve instructions and hands-on learning about the Kora or Balafon, both of which are West African musical instruments.

The Workshops may cover topics like:

Introduction to the Kora and Balafon instruments: Learning about their histories, construction, and cultural significances.

Playing Techniques: Teaching basic playing techniques, including plucking, strumming, and tuning the strings of the Kora and identifying the scales and octaves, the different styles of the striking on the wooden keys of the Balafon

Song Repertoire: Exploring traditional songs and melodies to play on the Kora or Balafon.

Maintenance: Tips on how to care for and maintain the instrument.

Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural and musical context of the Kora or Balafon in West African traditions.

Workshops are tailored for beginners or more advanced players, and they often provide participants with the opportunity to play and practice these instruments under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

End of workshop

Your transport can be arranged for an additional price. 

RATES

Rates are per person and might vary depending on availability. Prices do not include your transport costs - please send an inquiry and once the location of workshop is confirmed we will send you a final price for the workshop.

PRICES

Private workshop (transport not included)
3,500GMD
Group workshop (transport not included) *min. 2 trainees
2,000GMD

inclusions

What is included

  • Workshop
  • Fees for professional musician and griot 
  • Transport for facilitator
  • Instrument rental
  • Chairs rental

What is excluded

  • Your transportation in case the lesson takes place on the beach or another preferred location.
  • Personal items (souvenirs, additional drinks...)
  • International flights to and from The Gambia
  • Travel documentation (permits, visa fees...)
  • Travel Insurance
Can start any day
Depending on the availability, activity can start in any day of the week.
Family Friendly
Activity is suitable for families with kids more than 12 years old.
2 hours
Workshop takes one hour and a half.
Great for solo travellers
You can attend private workshop or join already scheduled workshops.
Customization Option
You can decide on the workshop location and intensity level.
Moderate activity
This activity requires little activity but a lot of patience when learning a new skill.
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FAQ

Can we adjust the activity?

You can decide on the location where the workshop will be taking place. The workshop usually takes 1,5 hours, but if you decide on a more intensive class (private class only), the workshop time can be extended. 

Do you provide instruments?

Yes, we provide instruments and chairs in case you decide to have a lesson on the nearby beach or another preferred location. 

Can we book extensive workshop (1 week or 2 weeks)?

Yes, you can decide to have a one-day lesson or multi-day workshops. 

Interview with griot

Did you ever hear of a word griot? It is a special occupation or function, that played a very important role in the history of Mali empire until the modern times of The Gambia. Griots are performers, musicians, messengers, historians, mediators and carriers of the oral traditions. Although the importance of their role in the society today is decreasing, they are still very respected musicians which inherited their role and skills from the past generations. Sheriffo Kanuteh is a very respected griot who comes from a long line of griots in the Kanuteh family. He enabled us to take a deep look into the life of a true local and took us down the history lane of griots life until today.
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GET A DEEPER INSIGHT INTO YOUR ADVENTURE

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LET'S PLAN YOUR ACTIVITY TOGETHER

MAKE A RESERVATION

Trips and Activities Contact Form (#11)

How it works?

Fill-in the contact form on your left and your personal assistant from My Gambia team will:
    • Get in touch with our partners.
    • Respond to you in 24 hours with the rates and availability.
    • Once you confirm the offer, we will ensure everything will be set for your trip or activity.

Do you need more than just adventure?

Run through our questionaire and we will prepare the wholesome experience that suits your travelling character.
Let's plan your trip together

OFFERED BY

My Gambia

My Gambia is collaborating with various music instructors and will always make sure to choose the one that will fit your skill level and preferences the most. 

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