Samba band
A Samba band or samba is a musical ensemble that plays samba music. Samba styled music originates from Brazil.
The rhythm section of a samba band consisting of drums is known as a bateria.
Instruments
A samba band normally consists of Tamborims , Snare drums (Caixa), Agogo bells, surdos, Ganzás / Chocalho (shakers), Cuíca, Timbal, Pandeiro, and the Repinique (often played by the leader for calls) whistles (called Apitos) (at the beginning to give the samba a beat) and Surdo. The Apito is often used by the leader to signal breaks and calls. Other instruments have been added in many samba bands such as frigideira, 4 stringed guitars, 7 stringed guitars, trombones and Singers. A big set of samba drums in the UK costs around £300. More expensive sets come with more drums enabling more players to join; a convenience due to how many would usually take place in the orchestra.
Tamborims and agogôs
Agogôs
Cuíca
A surdo
Music
In america, bands traditionally play Samba (carnival rhythms of the samba schools of Rio de Janeiro). In other countries they now play reggae, funk, hip hop and Brazilian folk music. Like other drumming bands the music exceeds 130 decibels but often this attracts listeners. Some samba bands have eccentric costumes whilst others have costumes themed around their religions/ animals.
Bands
Thousands of bands have been formed in countries outside Brazil. These often appear in schools but many are run by samba organisations. They are a good form of music education as they do not require music reading as the music is recalled aurally.