A string instrument called the kora has been played almost exclusively by men since the 13th century, strictly passed down as a family tradition in West Africa. Sona Jobarteh, the first woman from a Griot family to become a professional kora player, talks to Jeremy about her journey ahead of a performance Saturday in Somerville. Plus: GBH’s Tessil Collins, managing producer and curator of online jazz station, Jazz 24/7, remembers journalist Sarah-Ann Shaw as a trailblazer, mentor, and community activist.
