Suso Kunda
Basiru is a professional kora musician. He was born, and musically educated, with the Groit tribesmen, Gambia, W. Africa. The Groits have throughout time been advisers for kings and leaders, and for generations the Suso family (Suso kunda) have been the leading exponants of the kora music. The kora is 21 stringed instrument similar to a harp. In the past, it was used mostly for important ceremonies and religious rituals. Today it is used for social celebrations such as weddings and christenings. Groits also have a troubadour function, wandering from house to house. A Groit is an important advisor, journalist and a living historian. After Basiru had received his initial kora teachings from the Groits, he studied at L’institut national des arts, Bamako, Mali. He also taught at the at the Kunte Kinte association music school in the town of Juffureh. Today he resides upon the island of Funen, in Den mark, where he is an actiye musician, playing with different groups, including African and international musicians.