Due to COVID19, it is with heavy hearts that we inform you that our artistic programme will be suspended until the advice changes. Read our full statement.

‘Sona Jobarteh is Africa’s first female griot kora virtuoso, and also a fine singer and composer, blending traditional music, blues and pop to impressive effect’ Robin Denselow, The Guardian

Off the back of two packed-out Hall One shows last spring, we are delighted to welcome back the inimitable Sona Jobarteh to premiere new music, her only UK appearance on a European tour. Sona is Gambia’s first female kora virtuoso to come from a prestigious West African griot family. Breaking away from tradition, she is a modern day pioneer in an ancient, male-dominated hereditary tradition that has been exclusively handed down from father to son for the past seven centuries.

Sona’s dedication to spreading powerful humanitarian messages through her songs and her stage performances makes her more than a musician; she is active in social change and leads by her own example. These efforts include her setting up The Gambia Academy in her homeland and delivering speeches at high profile events around the world – including summits for the UN, the World Trade Organization and UNICEF.