Kora

Definition: The kora is a 21-stringed harp played by the Mandinga people of West Africa. It is played with both a rhythm line and a melody line. The body of the instrument is made of a halved calabash gourd covered with animal skin. The 21 strings are attached to the neck, which has leather tuning rings to tune the strings individually. The kora was traditionally strung up with gut strings, but it is now more common for kora players to use fishing line as string, as it is economical and effective. The strings are plucked with the first finger and thumb of each hand, the other fingers are used to hold two stablizing pegs which are attached to the instrument body.

Popular kora players include Mamadou Diabate, Toumani Diabate, Dembo Konte and Kasau Kouyate.

Pronunciation: CORE-uh

Also Known As: 21-stringed harp, Mandinka lute-harp

Alternate Spellings: Cora