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Amadu Bansang Jobarteh was one of the undesputed master kora players of his generation. As a Griot, he was a musician, historian and story-teller from the Manding peoples of Gambia.
In the late 1800s, and at the request of a Gambian chief, Amadu's father Jali Fili Jobarteh emigrated from Mali and settled with his family in the town of Bansang. Although his father played Ngoni (Konting or Halam), his children learned the Kora, which was the favored instrument in that area of Gambia. Amadu first learned kora from his elder brother Bala, whose son Sidiki Diabate is now considered one of the most accomplished Kora players in Mali. Sidiki's son, Toumani Diabaté, is now the most internationally acclaimed Kora player, and has numerous recordings to his credit.
Amadu Bansang Jobarteh embodied the wisdom and maturity of a grand master, and is one of the most respected kora players of all time.
Amadu passed away in April 2001. |
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