Josh Doughty | Kora Player, Teacher & Composer

Josh Doughty playing the kora, a traditional 21-string West African harp, outdoors in a wooded area. A joyful moment capturing the jali (griot) storytelling tradition in music.

Spreading the Word of the Kora

When my teacher Toumani Diabaté told me to help spread the word of the kora, I took it as a lifelong task — to share its sound, history and spirit, and to support everyone who plays it.

I'm a professional kora player, teacher and composer based in Bristol, UK. Having played the kora since childhood and studied with Toumani Diabaté in Mali, I've dedicated much of my life to sharing this extraordinary West African instrument.

Through online kora lessons, video tutorials, residential workshops, retreats and performances, my aim is to make the kora understood and heard more widely while honouring the tradition it comes from.

Learn to Play the Kora

Whether you're picking up the kora for the first time or looking to develop your playing, I offer a range of ways to learn.

Explore online video tutorials, individual lessons and immersive kora workshops in the UK, Europe and West Africa.

Online Kora Tutorials
Private Kora Lessons

Upcoming Events

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Featured
Basel Weekend Kora Workshop
Nov 28
Basel Weekend Kora Workshop

Join Josh Doughty for an immersive Kora course, designed for players of all levels. Over the weekend, participants will deepen their skills and understanding of the Kora through hands-on sessions. The weekend will offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich musical techniques of the Kora in a supportive and fun environment.

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Senegal Workshop - 2027
Jan 17
Senegal Workshop - 2027

Join me for a two-week holiday/kora workshop in Kafountine, southern Senegal. The classes will mainly be taught by me but we will have the privilege of a local kora jali joining us for some master classes. Accommodation, food and drinks will be provided by The Kora Workshop. 

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The Spring Kora Retreat - 2027
May 8
The Spring Kora Retreat - 2027
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Josh Doughty, a man playing kora to people whilst they lie down on the floor and listen in a yoga studio
Two musicians, a man and a woman, are sitting outdoors playingthe kora instruments in front of a rustic stone wall with blue shutters and green plants.