Learn Samba Drumming:
Licks And Grooves

Samba Music: More Than a Melody. In Brazil, Samba music is an integral part of life. It’s not just a genre; it’s a cultural phenomenon that embodies the vibrant spirit of the nation. Beyond the enchanting melodies and captivating rhythms, Samba is dancing in the streets, celebrating with friends, and a way of life.

Samba music weaves a rich tapestry of variants, each with their unique flavor. From the exuberant and narrative Samba Enredo to the communal and lively Samba de Roda, and from the deeply rooted Samba Chula to the intimate gatherings of Roda de Samba, each variant tells a different story of Brazil’s diverse musical heritage.

Origins: 

Samba is a product of the rich Afro-Brazilian musical traditions, seamlessly blending African rhythms with the pluralistic tapestry of Brazilian society. Many of its rhythmic elements find their roots in Afro-religious practices like Candomble and Umbanda. Samba Enredo emerged as the leading rhythm of Brazilian carnival, fusing marching band traditions with Afro-Brazilian musical idioms.

In contrast, the intimate gatherings of Roda de Samba feature fewer instruments and harmonize with melodic instruments like guitar, cavaquinho, and mandolin, drawing inspiration from the soothing melodies of Choro music.

Instruments: 

Samba’s vibrant rhythms come to life through a diverse array of instruments. In Samba Enredo, the pulsating rhythms are propelled by instruments such as the repique, surdos, tamborín, cuica, caixa, and chocalho. In the more intimate setting of Roda de Samba, the favorite instruments include the pandeiro, rebolo, tamborim, chocalo, ring repique, and agogo, each contributing to the rich sonic tapestry of Samba.