Bloco Dandara - community drumming workshop with live band

Bloco Dandara is a new bloco and the first of it’s kind in Scotland. We bring people together to create a sense of belonging through music, cultural exchange and working towards performances.

The first hour of the session is a percussion class focusing on the mechanics and skills involved in playing Brazilian Carnival drums. Perfect for anyone wanting to try drumming for the first time. Get a feel for the group, or anyone who wants to work on their skills. This can be a stand-alone experience if you're just coming to have a go. No experience needed.

The remaining 2.5 hours will be dedicated to continuing to work on material with our community. Learning new rhythms, practicing our existing arrangements and working towards performances. This will be less focused on technique and more on playing together!
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What sets Bloco Dandara apart from samba bands across the UK is its vibrant fusion of a large percussion section with musicians playing a mix of iconic Brazilian songs and popular tunes familiar to Scottish audiences. Expect to groove to everything from Ariana Grande and Oasis to BaianaSystem and Beth Carvalho—all delivered with the infectious energy of Brazilian rhythms and the enthusiastic spirit of Scotland.

Bloco Dandara is committed to inclusivity, welcoming participants from all walks of life and musical backgrounds. Whether you're an experienced musician or a complete beginner, all you need to join is enthusiasm and an open mind. These workshops offer a unique chance to explore different instruments and cultures in a friendly, supportive environment.

The artistic team at Bloco Dandara expertly blends rhythms from Brazil, South America, and the Afro-Diaspora with songs from the English-speaking world, creating a seamless mix of genres—pop meets samba, rock meets maracatu, and much more.
“I felt great and reinvigorated. I love the feeling when people played together for the first time” - August open day participant.
This project is supported by Contemporanêa instrumentos from Brazil
This class has been supported by the Betty McAllister mini award by Dream Machine Productions.

Host or Publisher Bloco Dandara