Kadialy Kouyate at University Hall

To close our NTU's 2024/25 professional concert series, they welcome Senegalese kora virtuoso/singer Kadialy Kouyate and his talented band back to University Hall. Winner of two Global Music Awards Gold Medals, don't miss this opportunity to hear his hypnotic compositions in a relaxed and intimate setting.

Get a taste of what to expect on Kadialy's YouTube channel.

Kadialy Koutaye
Born into the great line of Kouyate griots in Southern Senegal, Kadialy Kouyate was clearly destined to become a musician. Kadialy draws on his West African heritage and its traditional songs to create his own mesmerising compositions.

With his UK-based band he blends melodious lines from the kora into a multi-layered tonal palette. Now well-established in London, Kadialy’s mesmerising kora playing and singing style have been welcomed in many prestigious venues including the Globe Theatre; Westminster Hall; the National Theatre; Royal Festival Hall; the British Museum; O2 Arena; Union Chapel; and WOMAD amongst others. He has given numerous BBC broadcasts – including performances on Radio 3’s World Routes and Charlie Gillett’s World of Music. In November 2008, Kadialy Kouyate represented the Kora for the first time at the 2do Festival Mundial Del Arpa in Paraguay.

The Mandinka kora is traditionally African, and is a unique harp-like instrument with 21 strings, but the style it is played in is more similar to a Flamenco guitar.
Running time: 1 hour with no interval
Age guidance: suitable for 5+, under 14s must be accompanied by an adult