SECKOU KEITA
MEMBERS OF BATH PHILHARMONIA

Seckou is one of the finest exponents of the historic Senegalese harp, the Kora, a 21-stringed instrument which combines features of the lute and the harp. He is celebrated for his inventiveness and virtuosity. He has captivated audiences at WOMAD, Hay, Glastonbury, Tokyo Jazz, Chicago World Music Festival, Sydney International and Montreal Jazz Festivals.

Collaborations include Damon Albarn & the Africa Express, Welsh harpist Catrin Finch, Cuban pianist Omar Sosa, and AKA trio with Italian guitarist Antonio Forcione and Brazilian percussionist Adriano Adewale, Paul Weller and the Folk Collective, The Lost Words, Spell Songs (2019) featuring the words of Robert McFarlane and artwork of Jackie Morris.

Seckou has earned numerous accolades including three Songlines Music Awards and several BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, as well as 2019 Musician of the Year. Nottingham Trent University awarded him honorary Doctor of Music in July 2023.

Seckou will perform alongside musicians from from the Bath Philharmonia in an arrangement of African Rhapsody especially for Budleigh Music Festival. The result will be a joyous musical journey across continents.