The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi invites audiences to witness a musical dialogue that defies borders
The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi hosts a cross-cultural concert on 14 November 2025, featuring Malian kora legend Ballaké Sissoko, South African guitarist Derek Gripper, and Ukrainian bandurist Maryna Krut. Blending West African, classical, and Ukrainian traditions, the trio creates a powerful musical dialogue of heritage, hope, and harmony.
The performance promises a powerful blend of West African tradition, classical guitar artistry, and Ukrainian folk soul, showcasing how music can transcend borders and languages. Sissoko and Gripper’s collaboration—born from a spontaneous connection in Paris—melds Mandé griot traditions with improvisational brilliance. Krut adds emotional depth with her jazz- and folk-infused bandura performances, reflecting her homeland’s resilience and spirit.
Audiences can expect an evening of heritage, hope, and harmony, where three world-class artists communicate through strings rather than words.
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