Sean Gaskell

The kora is a 21-stringed harp native to the Mandinka people of West Africa. The sound can best be described as melodic, resonant, rhythmic, and intricate. The origins of the kora date back over 300 years, while some of the music can be traced back to the mid 13th century.

Gaskell has been playing and performing the kora since 2007 with over 300 performances at libraries across the US and Canada.  The Asheville, North Carolina based musician has had three extended visits to The Gambia.  While there,  he had the privilege of studying with some of the kora’s great masters: Malamini Jobarteh and Moriba Kuyateh.

Gaskell presents the kora as a way to connect people to different sounds, ideas, and experiences.  He is deeply appreciative for the opportunity to present something that is completely new and unheard of to many people.  Through the teachings of his teachers, he presents programs with utmost respect for their teachings, and to the people and culture of which the music originates.   

Gaskell's primary venues are public libraries, assisted living facilities and house concerts!  He is available to teach private lessons and provide tracks for recording sessions.  He is available for hire to perform at birthday parties, family events, weddings etc.