Kirina, Mali

This village in Mali traces its musical heritage back over 70 generations of griots, West African musician/bards that are keepers of oral history.  The Playing For Change crew first heard about this amazing village of musicians from Mahamadou Diabate, an amazing musician who took it upon himself to reach out to our team and advocate for these incredible people.

When we arrived in Kirina, the entire village poured out into the streets to greet us!  We were escorted through the village by the village's hunters, who were firing their rifles into the air in celebration.  Flanking us on all sides were percussionists and dancers, creating a parade like atmosphere as we walked to meet the village elders who were waiting for us beneath the shade of a mango tree.  It was certainly a day that none of us will ever forget!

A few months later, we returned to Kirina with West African superstar Baaba Maal.  We were met with similar fanfare, and Baaba Maal performed a song in dedication to the village of Kirina, its rich heritage, and its amazing people.  We shared this incredibly special performance as Episode #26: Dreams of Kirina.

The Playing For Change Foundation built its last music school in the village of Kirina. The school opened its doors in october 2010 and every week around 300 kids are attending free classes in traditional music, dance English and French.