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Ballaké Sissoko is a renowned Malian kora player and composer who has gained international recognition for his unique style of playing the traditional West African instrument. Born on September 18, 1966, in Bamako, Mali, Sissoko grew up in a family of musicians and was introduced to the kora at a young age by his father, Djelimady Sissoko, who was also a renowned kora player. Sissoko began his musical career as a child, playing the kora at local events and ceremonies. He later joined the National Institute of Arts in Bamako, where he studied music theory and composition. In the early 1990s, Sissoko formed a duo with fellow kora player Toumani Diabaté, and the two musicians went on to record several albums together, including the critically acclaimed "New Ancient Strings" in 1999. Sissoko's solo career began in earnest in the early 2000s, with the release of his debut album "Delou" in 2002. The album showcased Sissoko's virtuosic kora playing and his ability to blend traditional West African music with contemporary influences. The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish Sissoko as a major figure in the world music scene. In 2005, Sissoko released his second solo album, "Tomora," which featured collaborations with a number of international musicians, including French cellist Vincent Segal and American jazz guitarist Bill Frisell. The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to further cement Sissoko's reputation as a boundary-pushing musician. Sissoko's third solo album, "At Peace," was released in 2008 and featured collaborations with a number of Malian musicians, including kora player Baba Sissoko and singer Kasse Mady Diabaté. The album was a departure from Sissoko's earlier work, featuring more introspective and meditative compositions. In addition to his solo work, Sissoko has collaborated with a number of other musicians and artists throughout his career. He has worked with French singer and songwriter Matthieu Chedid, American jazz pianist Chick Corea, and British singer-songwriter Damon Albarn, among others. Sissoko's live performances are known for their energy and virtuosity, and he has played at major festivals and venues around the world. In 2012, he performed at the London Olympics opening ceremony, playing a duet with British cellist Julian Lloyd Webber. He has also performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Sydney Opera House, and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Sissoko's contributions to music have been recognized with a number of awards and honors. In 2009, he was awarded the prestigious Victoires de la Musique award in France for his album "At Peace." He has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best World Music Album for his collaboration with Vincent Segal, "Chamber Music," in 2010. In addition to his musical career, Sissoko is also an advocate for cultural preservation and education. He has worked with organizations such as UNESCO and the Aga Khan Foundation to promote traditional West African music and to provide educational opportunities for young musicians. Overall, Ballaké Sissoko's career has been marked by a dedication to innovation and collaboration, as well as a deep respect for the traditions of West African music.

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