Review: Brazilian Percussion Workshop, Derby

learning a repinque call
Dates: 1st October 2006
Tutor: Ravin ‘Raz’ Jayasuriya

Course Background:
Raz was invited by Beth de Lange to present a weekend workshop for 35 people. The group consisted mostly of people who were new to percussion and the workshop aims was to generate sufficient interest to launch a new community samba group in Derby.

Tutor Summary:
We began with some fun yet challenging body percussion and clapping warm ups which the group really enjoyed. I then presented two grooves, a Samba Reggae and a fusion groove mixing elements of Cuban and Brazilian rhythms for the bateria.

The group worked extremely well and concentrated hard throughout the day. As a result lot of material was covered, much more than I expected. There was a genuine buzz of excitement at the prospect of a new community group forming
and it was a successful first step in getting things started.
playing tamborim phrases
STUDY OVERVIEW:

Rhythms: Tumbao con Ijexa, Samba Reggae
Instruments: Surdos, Repiniques, Snares, Tamborims, Timbas, Agogos, Shakers


Techniques: Introduced basic techniques for Bateria instruments
surdo section playing samba reggae
Participant Reviews:
“As the event organiser, I was delighted with how the day went. We had such a mix of different people there from complete novices to more experienced drummers, most of whom had never played afro-Brazilian style music before. This was a thorough and authentic introduction to the genre that included everyone in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. The people who attended left feeling fired up with enthusiasm to start up a group in Derby, which is just what I had hoped for.”
Beth de Lange – event organiser

“I really enjoyed the workshop. The best parts for me were that Raz managed to get a random group of people of all ages to come together and to make something out of it in one day. I liked the history of samba that he talked about and the chance to find out more about the differing instruments. I am struggling to think of anything I did not like about the day.” Martin Swinkels

“Just wanted to say AGAIN how much I enjoyed the workshop on Sunday. I feel fired up with enthusiasm to get more involved so I can’t wait for the next event. I’ve also got my Year 2s clapping rhythms today with the aim of introducing them to drums and other instruments in the next few weeks. We’ll have carnival at Becket Primary yet!!” Jane Flewitt


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