The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is gearing up for an extraordinary Ellnora Reverb event featuring Ballaké Sissoko, a master of the kora from Mali, and Derek Gripper, a South African classical guitarist. Scheduled for Thursday, March 21st, this concert is a blend of Malian tradition and classical guitar, offered free to the public. Sissoko, with his deep roots in the Malian djéli tradition, brings an ancestral richness to his music, notably in albums like Djourou and A Touma, showcasing his collaborative spirit and intimate storytelling through the kora. Meanwhile, Gripper’s dedication to transcribing the complex kora compositions of into guitar scores weaves the intricate rhythms of African string music with the finesse of classical guitar, creating a unique musical tapestry.
This event is more than a typical concert; it’s a cultural exchange, featuring the gentle melodies of Sissoko’s kora alongside Gripper’s expressive guitar interpretations. The combination of Sissoko’s smooth kora play and Gripper’s detailed guitar work offers an evening of enjoyable music. Serving as a precursor to the next Ellnora Festival in 2025, this performance provides a taste of future global music collaborations. It brings together African tradition and Western classical music, offering an engaging experience that reflects the broad appeal of music and its ability to bridge different cultures.
In addition, on Friday, March 22nd, Derek Gripper will be conducting an improviser’s exchange workshop in the Orchestra Rehearsal Room at the University Illinois School of Music building. Observers are welcome and admission is free.
Derek Gripper, guitar and Ballaké Sissoko, Kora (an Ellnora Reverb Event)
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Urbana
Th Mar 21st, 7:30 p.m.
Free
