DO NOT USE Captivating String Virtuosos - Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper / Maryna Krut in Abu Dhabi.

Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper

Malian virtuoso Ballaké Sissoko, regarded as the greatest living kora master, is a seminal improviser and collaborator, unlocking rare subtleties on the instrument. South African classical guitarist Derek Gripper, inspired by the kora, transcribed and recorded its repertoire, pioneering an African body of work for guitar. The two met in Paris in 2022, performing entirely improvised music without verbal communication, later reuniting in London and recording a 2023 album. Together, they expand Mandé traditions with spontaneous variation, echoing Keith Jarrett’s improvised jazz explorations.

Maryna Krut

Ukrainian musician Maryna Krut pairs her powerful voice with the bandura, a traditional string instrument blending elements of lute and zither. Rooted in folk traditions since childhood, she now incorporates jazz and modern influences, performing both solo and with voice. The war transformed her from innovator to witness, singing for soldiers at the front and abroad to share Ukraine’s story. A national figure through The X Factor, The Voice, and Eurovision, she now brings her culture and resilience to global audiences.

• The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all patrons.
• Entry to the NYUAD Campus is through either the East or West Parking or the Welcome Center.
• Patrons will be required to present a valid ticket to an event at The Arts Center upon entry to the campus.
• As per current Department of Culture and Tourism guidelines, a Green Al Hosn is no longer needed to attend public events in Abu Dhabi.
• The wearing of face masks is no longer required in most indoor public places, including campus buildings.
• For access and wheelchair bookings, please email: nyuad.boxoffice@nyu.edu

By car: Take Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan St/E10, Al Mina, and Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed St/E12 to Laffan St. Exit at Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed St/E12. Continue on Laffan Street to your destination. GPS navigation is advised. 

By public transportation: You can take bus 170 (Al Saadiyat New York< University Via Abu Dhabi) to the Saadiyat New York University 3 bus stop and take a short walk from there. 

By taxi: You can easily reach your destination via taxi or by using a ride-hailing app.