A traditional West African kora has 21 strings.
The kora is a West African harp-lute associated especially with the Mandinka peoples and the hereditary musician tradition known as the jeli or griot tradition. Its large calabash resonator is covered with animal skin, while a long hardwood neck supports the strings. A central hand post helps the player hold the instrument while plucking with both hands.
The 21 strings are arranged in two roughly parallel rows on either side of the neck. This layout gives the kora a harp-like playing technique, although its construction also connects it to lutes. Traditional instruments use leather tuning rings, while modern versions may use machine tuners and other updated fittings.
Kora music often accompanies praise singing, history, and storytelling. The instrument should not be confused with the ngoni, another West African string instrument that generally has fewer strings and a different body design.