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Tori Robinson at the Ivorian Music School (Photo: Honore Koffi/U.S. Embassy)

American and Ivorian Musicians Bring New Meaning to the Concept of “Cultural Exchanges”

Tori Robinson, an American gospel singer based in Paris, proved an extraordinary cultural envoy and ambassador during her week-long visit to Côte d’Ivoire last September. Talented, professional, open, engaged and making friends wherever she went, Tori Robinson’s Ivorian experience brings new meaning to the concept of “Cultural Exchanges.” 

Her visit to the National School of Music ended with a spontaneous jam session, combining gospel themes with African instruments and rhythms.  During an informal get together at the Embassy, she learned how to play the Ahoko, a traditional musical instrument from the country’s heartland, and joined her Ivorian teachers as they performed village dances and songs. 

On her two free nights, she was invited to the homes of popular Ivorian artists for dinner and relaxed discussions on Ivorian and American music. As an Ivorian program participant noted, “Tori Robinson’s interest in - and curiosity about - our musical traditions and styles is evident to everyone she meets, and we respect and love her all the more for that.”