Name: Pulp Presents: Derek Gripper at the Historic Thomas Center
Start: 2025-02-28T19:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-02-28T21:00:00-05:00
Location: The Historic Thomas Center

Renowned South African classical guitarist Derek Gripper will take the stage at the Thomas Center on February 28, 2025, at 7 PM. Tickets for this unforgettable evening of music are available for $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the show.
Derek Gripper, celebrated as one of South Africa's leading guitarists, has made a significant impact on the classical guitar world through his innovative transcriptions and interpretations of kora music. His passion for this West African instrument led him to translate and record some of its greatest works, revolutionizing the classical guitar landscape.
The release of Gripper's debut album, “One Night on Earth,” showcased his groundbreaking approach. The legendary classical guitarist John Williams praised Gripper's work, stating it was “absolutely impossible until I heard Derek Gripper do it.” Kora master Toumani Diabaté was similarly astonished, even confirming if it was indeed just one guitarist performing. This acclaim opened doors for Derek, leading him to share the stage with both Williams in London’s Shakespeare's Globe and King’s Place, and Diabaté at the Acoustik Festival in Bamako, Mali. Gripper made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2016, performing with Mali’s Trio da Kali, and was recognized by Songlines with the best album in Africa and the Middle East for his album “Libraries on Fire.”
His subsequent recordings, including “A Year of Swimming” (2020), “Billy Goes to Durban” (2021), and “Sleep Songs for My Daughter” (2022), have continued to showcase his unique blend of kora-inspired compositions and improvisations.Gripper’s latest release, “Meeting in Lucerne” (2024), is a stunning collaboration with Dimitar Ivanov and Alexandre Gismonti, Gripper invites audiences to experience the rich interplay between African music and classical traditions.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Derek Gripper's extraordinary musicianship live. Purchase your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for a night of enchanting music at the Thomas Center.