Liu Chen's journey to West Africa for work unexpectedly turned into a harmonious cultural exchange. While in the region, she serendipitously discovered the kora, a traditional stringed instrument of the Mandinka people.
At a friend's invitation, Liu began taking lessons with a local kora teacher, igniting a deep love for the instrument. Today, she plays alongside her Malian husband, Adama Yalomba Traore, who masters the kamale ngoni, another cherished stringed instrument from Mali.
“When I went to Senegal, I found the kora and other traditional instruments. Later, in Mali, I was able to encounter more traditional instruments,” said Liu. “I started to search for and listen to kora music and I fell in love with this instrument. It’s very special because it has different sounds.”
Liu highlights the diverse sounds of the kora across regions. “In Mali, it sounds like classical music. It’s very calm and rich. When I listen to some Gambia or Senegal albums with the kora, I find it is more like folk music. So even though it’s the same instrument, every kora player has their own character and style. You can play the same song from traditional music but you can have your own way to interpret it,” she added.
This musical collaboration not only bridges cultures but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of West African traditions, showcasing the unifying power of music.
Reference(s):
Sounds of kora, kamale ngoni instruments ignite China-Africa exchange
cgtn.com