Keep the Samba Beat: Functions of the Drum Section Master in Brazil’s Carnival

No comments yet - Check Manuel Career's News! --> Manuel Marino Official <--

Article by Andre Skowronski

In every modern day orchestra, ensemble or larger band, there is a conductor. In Carnaval and samba, we see the same phenomena at the drum section, called “bateria” in Portuguese. In Brazilian Samba-School drum sections, there is always an experimented musician in charge for conducting, maintaining, and providing vigor to the samba beat. This figure is called the “Mestre de Bateria” or “First Director” of a Drums Section. This expert on carnaval drums must obligatorily possess specific skills in samba rhythms. He should definitely know how to play all percussion instruments of the drum section; know how to harmonize sub-sections; have an amazing ear to notice eventual beats/rhythm mistakes; and must able to command the samba-school percussionists through gestures (the whistle and the wand are the most used). Also, the “Diretor de Bateria” must be charismatic and willful. Some of the most legendary Brazilian Carnaval Drum Section Master also have strong personalities, which helped them not only maintain the power of their samba beat, but make sure ‘his percussionists’ follow him along many years in his samba-school. Lets learn a bit more of this important figure within the Brazilian Carnaval, who is literally located at the heart of any parade or samba gathering!

If you have ever seen the Carnaval parade in Rio, you have probably felt the intensity of the drums section. Many consider this segment of the parade, the most enthusiastic and vibrant, naturally. Now imagine that in each major samba school you can have up to 280 percussionists…Almost a full battalion! That

Posted by Manuel Marino | Filed Under Drums

Tags: article, beat, Brazil, Brazilian Carnaval, Carnaval, Chiceaux, functions, Mestre de Bateria, section, the Drum Section Master

country radio

Name

Email

Website

Cancel reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

You can add a link to follow you on twitter if you put your username in this box. Only needs to be added once (unless you change your username). No http or @:

This blog uses premium CommentLuv which allows you to put your keywords with your name if you have had 3 approved comments. Use your real name and then @ your keywords (maximum of 3)