The World’s Largest Balafon at UNESCO
The world’s largest balafon has been presented at UNESCO — brought from Berlin to Paris by its creator, Ivorian balafon master Aly Keïta. The three-metre instrument, created by Aly and his brothers, was transported from Berlin to Paris in a specially arranged vehicle.
Invited by the Permanent Delegation of Côte d’Ivoire to UNESCO, Aly represented his country in a joint showcase of the West African balafon and the Indonesian kolintang, celebrating the cultural practices associated with the two instruments and their joint inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The UNESCO presentation marked the first stop on a Big Balafon Tour.
In 2027, it will be presented as part of an exhibition in Kassel, while preliminary plans envisage its return to Paris in 2028.
Created in 1999, the four-octave diatonic balafon reflects both the musical heritage of the Keïta griot family and Aly’s work as an innovator and instrument-maker. Its components were handcrafted in Côte d’Ivoire, transported b
y sea to France and assembled by Aly and his brothers during the Ingénieuse Afrique Festival.
Based in Berlin, the giant balafon is available for museum exhibitions, festival presentations, concerts, cultural events and special projects. For exhibition, performance, booking and partnership enquiries, please contact Urban Lys.
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