RevelsConnects: Musical Connections features Medford’s Balla Kouyaté and family showcasing the rich tradition of the balafon. Born in Mali, Balla Kouyaté was raised in the Djeli tradition. His knowledge of his traditional repertoire is unparalleled. Today, the first balafon, over 1,000 years old, is considered a UNESCO Artifact of Oral and Intangible History and remains in Balla’s family, guarded by his father, El Hadji Sekou Kouyaté. Balla has toured extensively through Europe, Africa, and North America and has been featured on more than 45 albums including the Silk Road Ensemble’s “Sing Me Home” and Yo-Yo Ma’s “Songs of Joy and Peace.”

Watch the live performance through the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1141368669650145