Let the sounds of the kora -- a 21 stringed harp -- transport you to West Africa as Sean Gaskell performs on this gourd-bottomed harp.
Concert at the Library! Sean Gaskell features songs on the kora- a 21 stringed West African harp. He studied under the instruction of Moriba Kuyateh and the late Malamini Jobarteh at their home in Brikama, Gambia, over three extensive visits between 2008-2018. In 2023, he made his first visit to Senegal to study with Youssoupha Cissokho and his son Mamadou Cissokho in the town of Saly. The kora is traditionally played by oral historians known as Griots. Many songs featured on the kora preserve an 800 year history dating back to the founding of the Mande empire. Gaskell has presented adult, youth and family programs at over 350 libraries and a multitude of k-12 schools, colleges, universities and assisted living facilities in the United States and Canada.
“Need more proof that music is the greatest international language? Listen to how eloquently Sean Gaskell, a young fella from the grunge and coffee mecca plays the 21-string West African Kora, a gourd-bottomed harp that delivers both acres of melody and gently rippling rhythms.” Tom Surowicz – Minneapolis Star Tribune
“An amazing evening with an incredible talent! Thank you, Sean Gaskell, for sharing the contemplative sounds, history, legends and stories of the Kora! What a beautiful instrument, handled by yourself, with such respect and regard of its culture. We thank you for the experience!” Sherie Borges- Poor Richards Book Shoppe, Charlotte, NC
“Sean Gaskell’s performance at our library was highly enjoyable and of high quality. His skill and style helped communicate to families the history and cultural significance of the kora. The music is soothing and engaging for all ages. We highly recommend him and we look forward to having him back.” -Marissa Bazan, librarian, Lewis and Clark Library, Helena, MT
Funding has been made possible in part by funds from Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
AGE GROUP: | Seniors | Families | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | General | Arts & Entertainment |
The Roxbury Township Public Library is a municipal library serving the communities of Succasunna, Ledgewood, Landing, Berkshire Valley, Port Morris, and Kenvil. Residents of the township are eligible to a free library card which enables access to 2.8 million items across the Morris Library Alliance including digital books, museum passes and more.
