The World Is Going to End Without You

A 90-minute audio-only workshop with guitarist Derek Gripper exploring the quiet discipline of solo practice. Centered on repetition, simplicity, and deep listening, it looks at how making space for consistent, unadorned practice can open unexpected creative ideas. Designed as an intentional audio environment, the session treats listening not as background, but as the primary method through which focus, intuition, and new musical possibilities emerge.

Deep ListeningSustainable Practice

Instructor

Derek Gripper

Dates

Sessions

1 session

Duration

90 mins each

Level

All levels

Language

English

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Derek Gripper

Derek Gripper is a guitarist from Cape Town, South Africa, known for his groundbreaking work translating the music of the West African kora onto six-string classical guitar. His practice bridges classical guitar, Malian repertoire, oral tradition, improvisation, and deep listening. Gripper has become widely recognized for his adaptations of music by Toumani Diabaté and other kora masters, expanding the vocabulary of the guitar while opening new conversations between African musical traditions and contemporary classical performance.

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Instructor Statement

As Brazilian philosopher Ailton Krenak states, "“I hope that my statement does not violate the protocol of this house,” he began, firmly but politely. As he spoke, he smeared his face with jenipapo, a fruit used for Indigenous bodypainting, until it was covered in black. “Indigenous blood has been spilt over every hectare of Brazil’s 8m square kilometres,” he told the constituent assembly. “You are witnesses of this.”

FAQs

Why is this class audio-only? The audio-only format is intentional and designed to deepen listening. How should I set up to participate? Find a quiet space where you won't be interrupted. Do I need to be a musician to attend? No. The class is open to anyone whose practice depends on attention and listening. Will I be on camera? No.