We are thrilled to welcome UK-based Senegalese kora player, Seckou Keita to the Faber Alt. roster.

Since arriving in the UK in 1999, Seckou has been on an epic creative journey that has seen him broaden the idiomatic scope of his instrument as well as spread his wings, literally and figuratively.
Nicknamed "the Hendrix of the Kora", he has been celebrated for his ingenious tunings and virtuosity and praised as "one of the finest exponents of the kora". Performing all over the globe as a solo artist and with his ground-breaking quintet, he captivated audiences at WOMAD, Hay, Glastonbury, Tokyo Jazz, Chicago World Music Festival, Sydney International, Montreal Jazz Festivals and many more places.

On 26 May 2023, he will release African Rhapsodies via Claves Records, a work for kora and orchestra arranged by Italian composer and Bass player Davide Mantovani and recorded with BBC Concert Orchestra. Directed by Royal Northern College of Music’s head of conducting Mark Heron, Keita also invited Mantovani on double bass and his brother, Gambian percussionist (and kora player) Suntou Susso and pride of place was given to the outstanding South African cellist and vocalist Abel Selaocoe.

Seckou will be performing this upcoming album on tour in March, you can buy your ticket HERE

“I am really excited to be part of the Faber Alt family, (the sister company of Faber Music, one of the leading independent British publishers). I absolutely love the idea of working with the team and joining the catalogue of eclectic and inspiring talents which includes some of the finest names in the contemporary music world. I think we can do some amazing work together.”

Seckou Keita

“Seckou Keita is a most inspiring musician – his works are hypnotic and magical, and I’m delighted that we will be representing him on the Faber Alt. roster. I’ve long been a fan, having seen him perform live many times over the years, and most recently with the wonderful folk collective on the enchanting Spell Songs albums. In May this year, Seckou will release African Rhapsodies which is a unique work for kora and orchestra, and I’m very excited about seeing the impact this piece has on the classical stage”

Lucy Holliday, Head of A&R / Commercial Print Publishing

You can read more about Seckou Keita on his artist’s page.

You can listen to his full catalogue here.