Toumani Diabaté – the self-taught grand prince of the kora, West Africa’s twenty-one–string harp – has brought the traditional music of his native Mali to the attention of the world audience, including interesting collaborations with the likes of Björk and American bluesman Taj Mahal. His playing, while strongly rooted in the Malian tradition, is also open to a wide range of other influences, such as jazz and flamenco. Mali comes to Portland when Diabaté takes the stage with his Symmetric Orchestra, combining myriad elements in perfect balance. Ebullient, scorching salsa intermingles with ancient griot songs from across what was once called the Mandé Empire, and through it all, Diabaté’s sparkling kora weaves a golden thread through the passionately felt tones and rhythms.