Ballaké Sissoko with String Theory and Derek Gripper

Malian kora player Ballaké Sissoko is a master of his instrument, known for instrumental innovation and global collaborations. Following the griot tradition of his late father, he joined the Ensemble Instrumental National du Mali at age 13. Sissoko gained international acclaim through albums like New Ancient Strings with Toumani Diabaté, Chamber Music with Vincent Ségal, and the world music trio 3MA.

Guitarist Derek Gripper is best known for his ninth album, One Night on Earth. He meticulously transcribed note-for-note the complex compositions of Malian kora player Toumani Diabaté to play them on a six-string guitar.