Sona Jobarteh shapes the rich cultural heritage of western Africa into a captivating, modern music enjoyed by audiences around the world. SFMS is pleased to be partnering with Gretna Music in presenting this pioneering musical icon and humanitarian activist.

She was born into a Griot family from the Gambia, a tradition in which the men of the family (and only the men) have been musicians for 700 years, But she “didn’t want to be told ‘you are good for a woman' ” — so she ripped up the rules. Backed up by her band (Eric Appapoulay on guitar, Andi McLean on bass, Wes Joseph and Mamadou Sarr on percussion), what she can do with this west African instrument is pure magic.

The kora is a 21 stringed instrument. The sound resembles that of a harp, though when played in the traditional style it bears resemblance to a guitar. Kora players have traditionally come from families who are historians, genealogists and storytellers who pass their skills on to their descendants.

Sona Jobarteh is the first professional female kora virtuoso to come from any of the West African Griot dynasties. Her lineage includes kora masters Amadu Bansang Jobarteh, her grandfather, and the legendary Toumani Diabaté. Her virtuosity, distinctive voice, and onstage grace have combined to make her one of the world’s most sought-after world music artists. Since 2019 she has performed at the Hollywood Bowl, WOMAD, Symphony Space in New York City, and across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Sona founded the Gambia Academy in 2015. It is a pioneering institution dedicated to educational reform across the continent of Africa. It is the first of its kind in the Gambia to deliver a mainstream academic curriculum at a high level, while centering African culture, African history, African traditions and their intrinsic values rather than post-colonial values and foreign perspectives.