Bio
Sana Cissokho is a renowned kora virtuoso from Senegal, born into a family of Mandinka griots. He learned to play the kora from his parents, Lamine Sissoko and Ndeye Diongtang Diabaté, and his older siblings, Mamadou Sissoko and Atab Cissokho.
Hailing from Casamance, in southern Senegal known for its rich cultural heritage, his unique sound has drawn comparisons to his uncle Ballaké Sissoko, Toumani Diabaté, and his cousin Sona Jobarteh.
Descended from a lineage of legendary kora masters, Cissokho embodies the instrument's profound significance in his heritage, carrying forward the rich tradition of Mandé music. His music echoes the soulful sounds of his homeland, weaving together intricate melodies that honor the musical traditions of West Africa and blend seamlessly with contemporary sounds.
music
As a griot himself, his music serves as a reflection of his people's history, passed down through generations in song and storytelling.
With a sophisticated repertoire that combines traditional and contemporary sounds, Cissokho has captivated audiences by performing at renowned festivals such as Sauti Za Busara in Tanzania and World Music Week in Portugal. His unique musical talent is showcased on the international world music scene through his captivating performances and engaging stage presence.
Artistic info
Sana Cissokho - Vocalista & Kora
Oumar Diallo - Balafon. Ngoni & backing vocals
M. Cherif - Djembe & backing vocals
Adaiane Silva - Manager
Masterclass info
Sana Cissokho is classically trained in Kora. Born to a privileged Diali/Griot family and being the direct descendant of the very first Kora Master. Cissokho's extraordinary abilities are at the heart of this Masterclass which is a cultural project dedicated to preserving and promoting Mandinka culture, with a particular focus on mastering the kora.
The Kora is a traditional instrument, being passed down from father to son in the Madinka culture and heritage.
We offer at least two different sessions - one focused on introducing the instrument to music enthusiasts (beginners) to this famous West African instrument and another focused on training music professionals already familiar with the instrument (advanced Kora masterclass). While we welcome musicians of all levels, we separate participants into groups to ensure a tailored learning experience.
Each masterclass is limited to a maximum of 20 participants.
The Masterclass offers moments of discussion around the creation of original songs as well as the expertise on learning traditional Mandinka music. The event is best suited if it is organized over a period of at least two days, however it can be adapted to a compact format to fit one day.
The immersive Masterclass format is best suited for one to two weeks.
Music enthusiasts can receive adequate training to become music professionals through their introduction to this rich West African tradition. Participants can benefit from meetings with the Diali and the creation of original projects at the end of the Masterclass (advanced).
We have attached his stage plot for both the music performance and the Kora Masterclass (page 3).
Press Photos
