Constantinople (Kiya Tabassian) & Ablaye Cissoko

Kiya Tabassian & Ablaye Cissoko: the meeting of two of the most brilliant instrumentalists in the world. A beautiful dialogue between the kora and the setar, as if these instruments had always coexisted. Based in Canada and Senegal. Touring year-round. 2 albums released. Constantinople: 60 original creations, more than 290 cities in 57 countries.

Throughout history and across cultures, the world’s Word has manifested through earthly figures like bards, troubadours, and griots. These artisan poets, serving as both messengers and peacemakers, bridge the gap between the forces of nature, the ineffable divine, and the memory of the ancients. They are entrusted with nurturing the daily hearth of the collective soul.

Constantinople, founded in 1998 in Montreal by setar virtuoso and composer Kiya Tabassian, is known for blending Persian musical traditions with various global styles. Under the artistic direction of Kiya Tabassian, the ensemble has developed over 60 original creations and performed in more than 290 cities across 57 countries. Tabassian has collaborated with internationally renowned artists such as Kayhan Kalhor, Ablaye Cissoko, and Marco Beasley, and has presented his works in prestigious venues like the Berlin Philharmonic, Salle Pleyel in Paris, and the Festival of Sacred Music in Fez.

Ablaye Cissoko is one of the greatest kora players and West African singers in the world, having released 15 albums and toured internationally for 20 years.