Search 
Derek Gripper Guitar Concert
The following description was submitted by the event organizer.
Derek Gripper’s journey began with a question: How could the intricate, flowing music of West Africa’s griots — traditionally played on the 21-string kora — be brought to life on the guitar? His album One Night on Earth was the answer, a recording so unexpected that celebrated guitarist John Williams said, “It seemed absolutely impossible until I heard Derek Gripper do it.”
But this project wasn’t just about technical mastery. It was about creating a connection between African oral traditions and Western classical music, between different ways of listening and understanding. Along the way, Gripper has performed with legendary musicians like John Williams and Toumani Diabaté’s Symmetric Orchestra, sharing stages from Carnegie Hall to Shakespeare’s Globe. In his concerts, Derek weaves together the works of composers like Toumani Diabaté, Ali Farka Touré, J.S. Bach, and Arvo Pärt, creating a dialogue where different musical traditions meet, listen, and learn from one another. His adventurous spirit and artistry have been recognized by Songlines Magazine more than once: his 2016 album Libraries on Fire was named Best Album in Africa and the Middle East, and his 2024 collaboration with kora master Ballaké Sissoko won Songlines’ Best Album award for that year.
Recent projects like A Year of Swimming and his ongoing work with Sissoko blend original compositions, improvisations, and West African and European musical lineages. His recordings of Bach’s solo works reveal surprising links between classical music and the improvisational spirit of the griots.
Join an unforgettable evening of music, connection, and discovery with Derek Gripper. Book your tickets now and be part of the conversation.