In this introductory class, Rachel from SambaViva will touch on the history and cultural significance of samba. Students will be introduced to the samba rhythm and some of the instruments that make up the sound, and learn the basic step. Students should come prepared to move, have fun and take a musical journey! No previous experience is necessary.
“SambaViva is an internationally recognized dance and music ensemble dedicated to authentically presenting and promoting Brazilian culture. With an energy that is vivacious, striking, and engaging, SambaViva brings a taste of Brazil to any occasion. SambaViva has been offering samba and Afro-Brazilian classes for over 10 years. Classes are a cornerstone of our mission to share our enthusiasm for Brazil with people of all ages, genders, and abilities. Rachel will lead this workshop. She discovered samba in 2001 and her life was changed forever. Learning samba ignited a passion for dance and for Brazil’s rich culture and exuberant energy. Rachel progressed from learning to performing to teaching samba and other Afro-Brazilian styles while studying at the Brazilian Cultural Center of New England. She performed with the Center’s percussion group, Samba Tremeterra, for ten years. In addition to her training at the BCCNE, Rachel has studied samba no pé, samba de gafieira, afoxé, axé, and other Brazilian dances with teachers based in New York and all over Brazil.”
Why samba now? Because “the same foot that dances samba, if necessary will join the fight, capoeira.” “O mesmo pé que dança um samba, se preciso vai à luta, capoeira” (Lyrics from Viola Enluarada, Marcos Valle and Milton Nascimento)