Unlock The Polyrhythmic Soul Of Your Guitar
If you’re feeling stuck in your guitar playing, the kora offers a completely new way of thinking about melody, rhythm, and groove. For over 700 years, kora players have mastered the art of weaving basslines, melodies, and rhythmic patterns together, creating some of the most hypnotic and polyrhythmic music in the world. Now, you can bring that same approach to your guitar.
This course, led by Derek Gripper, teaches you how to capture the rolling basslines, cascading melodies, and deep rhythmic feel of the kora all on a six-string guitar. You’ll learn to adapt the intricate compositions of Toumani Diabaté, develop right-hand independence, and discover how West African phrasing and polyrhythms can transform the way you play.
This isn’t just about learning a few kora pieces. It’s about breaking free from conventional guitar habits, expanding your ear, and internalizing a whole new way of playing. Whether you’re a classical guitarist, a fingerstyle player, or simply looking to expand your musical vocabulary, this course will open up a world of new possibilities.
Your guitar will never feel the same again.
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
Capture the Essence of Kora on Guitar
- Learn kora-inspired right-hand plucking patterns and phrasing.
- Develop a rolling bass technique while maintaining melodic independence.
- Master the polyrhythmic interplay that defines kora music.
Study the Legacy of Toumani Diabaté
- Learn Lam Tooro, Konkoba, and Jaarabi, essential pieces in the kora repertoire.
- Understand how Derek Gripper adapted kora music to guitar.
- Explore improvisation techniques within West African traditions.
Develop Your Own West African-Inspired Sound
- Apply kora-inspired techniques to fingerstyle guitar and composition.
- Strengthen right-hand dexterity and rhythmic control.
- Explore the historical and cultural depth behind the music.
Sample Lessons
Meet Your Tutor: Derek Gripper
Derek Gripper is a guitarist who has redefined the possibilities of the six-string guitar. Through years of dedicated transcription and performance, he has brought the complex, flowing compositions of Malian kora virtuoso Toumani Diabaté into the guitar world. His album One Night on Earth stunned listeners with its ability to translate the delicate polyphony of the kora onto a Western instrument, earning praise from both John Williams and Diabaté himself.
His journey has taken him to the world’s most prestigious venues, from Carnegie Hall to global festival stages, blending the traditions of African music with classical guitar technique. His innovative Kora Guitar Lessons have inspired musicians worldwide, offering both technical mastery and a deep appreciation for the storytelling traditions of West African griots.
In this course, Derek shares his approach to kora-inspired guitar playing, helping you unlock new textures, phrasing, and polyrhythms that will transform your understanding of the instrument.
The Ultimate Learning Experience
Kora Mastery On Guitar
Transform your guitar into a kora with 160 minutes of carefully constructed kora guitar lessons from the pioneer of this field.
Interactive On-screen Notation
Learning new skills is easier with our innovative, interactive tools. Access on-screen notation, tablature, virtual fretboards, slow motion and more.
Derek Gripper – Masterclass
Take your studies further with two hours of bonus material learning how to play in the style of Ali Farka Toure.
Compás Backing Grooves
Put your new techniques into practice and Jam over different Malian grooves with Calabash player Adama Kone.
Course Content
Course Includes
- 7 Modules
- 45 Lessons
- Lifetime Access
- Student Support Group
Responses