Sona Jobarteh Concerts

Experience Sona Jobarteh

Sona Jobarteh is a pioneering Gambian-British musician renowned for her mastery of the kora, a traditional West African 21-string harp. As one of the few female kora virtuosos in a historically male-dominated tradition, she has broken cultural barriers while preserving and innovating within her Mandinka heritage. Born into the prestigious Jobarteh griot family, Sona began studying the kora at a young age under her father Sanjally Jobarteh’s guidance, blending classical training with contemporary influences.

Her musical style fuses traditional West African sounds with elements of jazz, blues, and Western classical music, creating a unique and soulful sonic experience. Sona’s debut album, *Fasiya* (2007), received critical acclaim for its intricate compositions and emotive storytelling. She has since released multiple albums and collaborated with diverse artists worldwide.

Beyond performance, Sona Jobarteh is also an educator and composer dedicated to cultural preservation and innovation. She founded The Gambia Academy to nurture young musicians and promote African music education. Her work extends to film scoring and global music festivals, solidifying her reputation as a distinguished ambassador of African musical heritage.