Balafon

Courses /
  • Instrument

Master the Balafon: Lessons and Techniques

In balafon lessons, you will learn key parts of the instrument, correct posture, intonation, playing techniques, basic principles, interval rates, and modulation types.

The aim of the balafon courses is to teach you how to improvise within all kinds of rhythms. The teacher will demonstrate numerous possibilities for variation by interpreting simple melodies, often through songs. Following the tradition of balafon playing, music notation is not used. Instead, lessons are based on the traditional African method of playing by ear through continuous learning. This teaching method will familiarize you with the musical differences and nuances of the instrument, helping you learn transposition and musical adaptation on the balafon.

Balafon

Teacher

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    Aly Keïta

    Balafon Teacher from Abidjan, Ivory Coast

    Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Aly began his Balafon journey at a young age, learning from his father, a skilled Balafon player. Growing up in a Griot family—renowned for preserving traditional music and instruments like the Djembe, Kora, and Balafon—Aly was deeply immersed in a rich musical heritage. After initial training with his father, he further honed his skills under the guidance of the esteemed brothers Zouratié and Daka Coulibaly.

    Craftsmanship and Innovation

    Aly’s passion for craftsmanship led him to create his own Balafons, meticulously refining their sound and construction. His innovative approach resulted in the development of a diatonic Balafon, expanding his musical exploration into jazz and modern genres, influenced by pianist Georges Makinto.

    Worldwide and Teaching 

    Aly has captivated audiences on stages across continents with his distinctive sound. He has also led workshops at prestigious institutions such as CFPM Niamey and INSAAC and co-authored a teaching manual with Gert Kilian and Philippe Nasse.

    At the Global Music Academy, Aly offers Balafon lessons to both children and adults, sharing his expertise and passion with a diverse range of students.

    Courses

    • Balafon Kids

    • Balafon

    Languages

    German

    Website

    https://www.alykeitabalafon.com/