Lark in the Morning

Deluxe Kora, with pickup

Name: Deluxe Kora, with pickup
Brand: Lark in the Morning
SKU: HAR421
Price: 1999.0 USD
Availability: InStock

SKU:HAR421

$1,999.00

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商品バリエーション

We are consistently drawn to this kora for the way it carries the full spirit of West African string-craft into a single, striking instrument. The calfskin head catches the eye immediately, and the two hand posts flanking the tall neck give it a sculptural presence unlike anything else on a stage or in a living room. Add the built-in electronic pickup with equalizer and you have a serious instrument ready for live performance or studio recording.

Construction & Materials

This kora originates from Mali and is built around a large round gourd resonator, approximately 16 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep, covered with a natural calfskin head that contributes warmth and sensitivity to the instrument's tone. A tall hardwood neck rises through the center of the gourd body, flanked by two turned hardwood hand posts that serve as anchor points for the player's grip. The 21 strings are secured to a wooden bridge fitted at the face of the gourd and run to individual machine tuners along both sides of the neck, allowing for precise and stable tuning without the slippage common to traditional rawhide collar tuning. A built-in electronic pickup with a two-band equalizer and both XLR and 1/4-inch output jacks makes this instrument fully stage-ready. A gig bag is included for transport and storage.

Sound & Playability

The kora is tuned in a diatonic scale, with strings alternating from left to right across the bridge in the traditional manner, similar in layout to a kalimba. This arrangement allows the player to voice melody and accompaniment simultaneously, with one hand on each side of the string column. The calfskin head responds with a naturally bright and warm resonance, producing the shimmering, harp-like cascades that define the kora's voice in Mande musical traditions. The machine tuners significantly reduce setup time and help the instrument hold pitch reliably across performances. The pickup system captures the instrument's acoustic character faithfully, making amplification straightforward for any venue size.

About This Instrument

The kora is one of the most iconic instruments of West Africa, played for centuries by the Jali (griot) musicians of the Mande-speaking peoples across Mali, Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea. It occupies a singular role as both a melodic and rhythmic instrument, used to accompany historical narratives, praise songs, and ceremonial music. With approximately 21 strings and its characteristic split-hand playing technique, the kora requires a unique approach that rewards dedicated study. This deluxe version with machine tuners and integrated electronics brings the instrument's capabilities into contemporary performance contexts while remaining true to its traditional construction. Approximate overall length is 44 inches, body width 16 inches, and body depth 8.5 inches rising to approximately 13.25 inches with the bridge assembly.

Care & Maintenance

The calfskin head is sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. Avoid storing or playing the instrument in environments with extreme dryness or moisture, and allow the instrument to acclimate gradually when moving between climates. Wipe down the strings after playing to extend their life. The machine tuners require no special maintenance beyond occasional light lubrication if they become stiff. Store the instrument in the included gig bag when not in use to protect the head, strings, and electronic components from dust and accidental impact. If the pickup or equalizer requires service, consult a luthier or instrument technician familiar with piezo or contact pickup systems.