photo credit: Lance Freeman

Personnel (left to right):

Michael Smolens
balafon, alto flute, melodica, djun-djuns, shakers, vocals

Daniel Berkman
kora, ukulele, djembe, tambourine, vocals

Joni Haastrup
dun-dun, djembe, djun-djuns, bells, shekere, vocals

Description

Three veteran performers/composers/recording artists
join forces to create an enchanting fusion
of traditional and original West African
melodies and rhythms.

The heart of this dynamic and captivating ensemble
are the indigenous instruments balafon (marimba),
dun-dun (talking drum), and kora (harp),
uniquely combined with alto flute, ukulele,
melodica, djembe, djun-djuns, shekere,
bells, tambourine, and vocals.

The band's emotional range spans from
the delicate and longing to the inspiring and ecstatic,
while their collective cosmopolitan backgrounds
give birth to unpredictable musical excursions.

Quotes about the Band

"The children and families of
Children's' Village Child Development Center
    thoroughly enjoyed the ebullient sounds of 'Bal du Kor'!
This wonderful group of musicians
helped create an ambiance of warmth and sharing.
Our event celebrating West-African cultural heritage
was an evening to remember, thanks to 'Bal du Kor'." 
  
—Molly Skuse (Executive Director, Children's Village Child Development Center, SF branch)

"On Wednesday, February 14, 2007,
the talented West African Trio 'Bal du Kor' performed
with indigenous African instruments playing authentic
West African music...to the delight of all."

—Castilleja School