Gambiaj.com – BANJUL, The Gambia) – At just 16 years old, Sally Jobarteh is poised to become Gambia’s next queen of kora. Born into one of the most renowned griot families, she carries a rich musical legacy that stretches beyond decades. As the daughter of Dembo Jobarteh, niece of legendary kora players (late Tata Dinding and his brother Pa Bobo Jobarteh). She is also a cousin of globally acclaimed Sona Jobarteh, but Sally’s musical journey is profoundly rooted in her heritage.

Aside from her inherent gift with the kora, she is also an outstanding student at SBEC International School, balancing academic excellence with her growing reputation as a kora prodigy.

A Musical Prodigy from a Griot Family

The Jobarteh family name is synonymous with the kora, a 21-stringed instrument traditionally played by West African griots, or Jalis. Sally’s father, Dembo Jobarteh, is an accomplished kora player and instrument maker. Speaking about his daughter’s journey, Dembo recalls her early fascination with the instrument.

“Since she was five years old, she was drawn to the kora,” he says. “She would always try to play it, feeling the chords and exploring its melodies. It was clear from an early age that she had a gift.”

The Jobarteh family takes immense pride in seeing Sally embrace the instrument. In a culture where female kora players are still a rarity, her talent and dedication stand out. Her late uncle, Tata Dinding Jobarteh, encouraged her father to nurture her skills. “Before he passed, he called me and said, ‘Please keep encouraging Sally. Do everything so she can play,’” Dembo recalls. “He was so proud of her, and so is the entire family.”

Sally Jobarteh and her father, Dembo Jobarteh, performed together in Ziguinchor, at the second International Kora Festival in December. Organized by the Association of ‘Korafola,’ the festival celebrates the kora, an iconic instrument of Mandingue culture, and brings together the best musicians and fans of this African musical treasure.

Balancing Music and Education

While her musical talent is undeniable, Sally remains committed to her education. Currently in Form 3 at SBEC International School, she excels academically while refining her kora skills. Her ability to balance both worlds showcases her discipline and determination.

“She is doing well in school as well as in music,” says her father. “It’s important to us that she continues her education while also mastering the kora.”

A Carefully Groomed Talent

As a young female kora player in a male-dominated tradition, Sally is being carefully guided and protected by her father and extended family. Dembo emphasizes the importance of ensuring she grows into her talent with the right support. “She has a rare gift, and we want to make sure she develops it the right way,” he explains. “She is not just playing; she is representing a rich heritage.”

Her performances have already started gaining attention. A video of her playing the kora with Starfish International went viral on YouTube, drawing admiration from both her family and the wider community.

The Future of Kora Music in Gambia

With Sally’s rising prominence, the future of kora music in The Gambia looks promising. As she continues to refine her craft and gain recognition, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for young female musicians in a tradition historically dominated by men.

For now, she remains focused on her studies and her music, with the full support of her family. If her current trajectory is anything to go by, Sally Jobarteh is on her way to becoming one of The Gambia’s most celebrated kora players, carrying forward the legacy of her ancestors while carving out a unique place of her own.