Brazilian drums, also known as ‘tamborim’, are the rhythmic heart of Brazilian music. From samba to bossa nova, these drums play a vital role in creating the infectious, lively beat that has captivated audiences around the world. But what exactly are Brazilian drums, and how do they differ from other types of drums? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, styles, and techniques of Brazilian drums, as well as the different types of drums used in various genres of Brazilian music. So, get ready to feel the pulse of Brazil, as we dive into the exciting world of Brazilian drums!
What are Brazilian drums called?
A Brief Overview of Brazilian Drums
Types of Brazilian Drums
- Tamborim: This small drum is the backbone of Brazilian rhythms and is played with a thick, padded strap that allows for quick and precise strokes.
- Caixa: A cylindrical drum that produces a sharp, treble sound and is used to maintain the beat in samba and other Brazilian rhythms.
- Surdo: A large bass drum that provides the foundation for the rhythm section in Brazilian music.
- Repinique: A tall, narrow drum that produces a high-pitched sound and is used to accentuate specific beats in the music.
- Guiro: A percussion instrument made from a hollowed-out gourd that is played by scraping a stick along its edges, adding a unique timbre to the music.
The Importance of Drums in Brazilian Music
- Drums play a crucial role in Brazilian music, providing the foundation for the rhythm and driving the beat.
- Different types of drums are used to create a full and rich sound, each with its own unique timbre and purpose.
- Brazilian drums are not just a means of keeping time, but also a way to express emotion and convey the cultural identity of the country.
Brazilian Drumming Techniques
The Art of Playing Brazilian Drums
Correct Grip and Positioning
When it comes to playing Brazilian drums, proper grip and positioning are crucial for producing the right sounds and maintaining control over the instrument.
- Grip: A firm grip is essential for producing a clear and consistent sound. The right grip varies depending on the type of drum, but generally, the fingers should be positioned around the edge of the drum, with the thumb resting on the rim.
- Positioning: The position of the drummer’s hands and arms should be relaxed but in control. The elbows should be slightly bent, allowing for quick and precise movements.
Rhythm and Timing
Rhythm and timing are the backbone of Brazilian drumming. The drummer must have a deep understanding of the different rhythms and be able to play them with precision.
- Syncopation: Brazilian rhythms often feature syncopated beats, which means accenting the off-beats. Drummers must be able to identify and play these beats accurately.
- Polyrhythms: Many Brazilian rhythms involve playing multiple rhythms simultaneously. This requires a high level of rhythmic awareness and coordination.
Dynamics and Expression
Dynamics and expression are also important elements of Brazilian drumming. The drummer should be able to vary the volume and intensity of their playing to create a dynamic and engaging performance.
- Volume: Brazilian rhythms often involve playing loud and soft notes. Drummers must be able to control the volume of their playing to create a dynamic performance.
- Expression: Brazilian drumming is not just about playing the right notes at the right time. It’s also about expressing the emotions and energy of the music. Drummers should strive to convey the mood and feeling of the rhythm through their playing.
Popular Brazilian Drumming Styles
Samba
The Evolution of Samba Drumming
Samba is a lively and rhythmically complex genre of music that originated in Brazil. It is characterized by its use of drums, which play a crucial role in creating the infectious and energetic beat that is synonymous with samba music. Over the years, samba drumming has evolved and diversified, with various styles emerging that showcase the rhythmic diversity of this unique musical genre.
Samba Reggae
Samba reggae is a subgenre of samba that originated in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. It is characterized by its heavy use of bass and rhythm guitar, as well as its distinctive drumming style. The drums used in samba reggae are typically larger and more resonant than those used in other styles of samba, and the drumming style is characterized by its emphasis on the downbeat.
Samba enredo
Samba enredo is a style of samba that is commonly performed in Rio de Janeiro during the city’s annual Carnival celebrations. It is characterized by its use of large, elaborate floats and costumes, as well as its complex drumming patterns. The drums used in samba enredo are typically smaller and more precise than those used in other styles of samba, and the drumming style is characterized by its emphasis on precision and coordination.
Samba de bateria
Samba de bateria is a style of samba that is characterized by its use of a large ensemble of drums, known as a bateria. The bateria typically includes a variety of drums, including surdo, caixa, and repinique, as well as other percussion instruments such as cowbells and maracas. The drumming style in samba de bateria is characterized by its emphasis on synchronization and coordination, with each drummer playing a specific rhythm or pattern in unison with the rest of the ensemble.
Bossa Nova
The Origin of Bossa Nova Drumming
Bossa nova is a genre of music that originated in Brazil in the 1950s. It is characterized by its use of jazz harmonies and rhythms, as well as its distinctive drumming style. The drums used in bossa nova are typically smaller and more precise than those used in other styles of Brazilian music, and the drumming style is characterized by its emphasis on subtlety and nuance.
Bossa Nova Beat
The beat of bossa nova is characterized by its use of a steady, syncopated rhythm. The drums used in bossa nova typically include a snare drum, as well as a variety of other percussion instruments such as tambourine and shaker. The drumming style in bossa nova is characterized by its emphasis on subtlety and precision, with each drummer playing a specific rhythm or pattern in unison with the rest of the ensemble.
Bossa Nova Groove
The groove of bossa nova is characterized by its use of a relaxed, swinging rhythm. The drums used in bossa nova typically include a variety of percussion instruments such as tambourine and shaker, as well as a bass drum. The drumming style in bossa nova is characterized by its emphasis on subtlety and nuance, with each drummer playing a specific rhythm or pattern in unison with the rest of the ensemble.
Axé Music
The Rise of Axé Music
Axé music is a genre of music that originated in Brazil in the 1990s. It is characterized by its use of a blend of samba and funk rhythms, as well as its distinctive drumming style. The drums used in axé music are typically larger and more resonant than those used in other styles of Brazilian music, and the drumming style is characterized by its emphasis on
Famous Brazilian Drummers
Pioneers of Brazilian Drumming
Wilson Simonal
- Known for his work in samba and MPB (Brazilian Popular Music)
- Collaborated with notable Brazilian musicians such as Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil
- Influenced by Afro-Brazilian rhythms and American jazz
- Known for his energetic and innovative drumming style
Márcio Montarroyos
- Considered one of the most important drummers in Brazilian music history
- Known for his work in bossa nova and samba
- Collaborated with famous Brazilian musicians such as Tom Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes
- Influenced by African rhythms and jazz
- Known for his versatile and creative drumming style
João Nogueira
- Known for his work in samba and MPB
- Collaborated with notable Brazilian musicians such as Cartola and Isadora Darcy
- Influenced by African rhythms and American jazz
- Known for his energetic and powerful drumming style
- Also known for his work as a composer, with many of his songs becoming classics in the Brazilian music scene.
Modern Brazilian Drummers
Juçara Neves
Juçara Neves is a highly acclaimed Brazilian drummer who has made a name for herself in the international music scene. She has collaborated with many renowned artists and has performed at numerous festivals and venues around the world. Her unique style combines traditional Brazilian rhythms with modern drumming techniques, creating a sound that is both innovative and respectful of the musical heritage of her homeland.
Kiko Zambianchi
Kiko Zambianchi is another prominent Brazilian drummer who has gained recognition both in his home country and abroad. He is known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of musical styles, from samba and bossa nova to rock and jazz. Kiko has worked with many famous musicians and has participated in numerous recording sessions and live performances.
Bruno Gouveia
Bruno Gouveia is a talented Brazilian drummer who has established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians in the country’s vibrant music scene. He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and has performed at prestigious venues and festivals in Brazil and beyond. Bruno’s playing is characterized by its precision, energy, and musicality, making him a highly valued member of any musical ensemble.
Learning Brazilian Drumming
Resources for Learning Brazilian Drumming
Online Tutorials
There are a plethora of online resources available for those interested in learning Brazilian drumming. From YouTube channels to online courses, there is no shortage of options to choose from.
YouTube Channels
One of the most accessible ways to learn Brazilian drumming is through YouTube channels. These channels offer a wide range of tutorials, from beginner to advanced levels, and cover various styles of Brazilian music. Some popular channels include “Bateria do Cidade,” “Rafael Grampa,” and “São Paulo Drum School.”
Online Courses
For those looking for a more structured learning experience, online courses are an excellent option. Sites like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a variety of courses in Brazilian drumming taught by experienced instructors. These courses often include video lessons, written tutorials, and interactive exercises to help students improve their skills.
Brazilian Drumming Schools
For those who prefer in-person instruction, Brazilian drumming schools offer a unique learning experience. These schools provide a hands-on approach to learning and offer opportunities to practice with other students. Some well-known schools include “Escola de Música Pequena,” “São Paulo Drum School,” and “Bateria do Cidade.”
Books and DVDs
For those who prefer self-directed learning, books and DVDs can be an excellent resource. There are many books available that provide detailed information on Brazilian drumming techniques and rhythms. DVDs offer the advantage of visual instruction, making it easier to understand and follow along with the lessons. Some recommended books and DVDs include “Brazilian Rhythms for Drumset” by Horacio Fonseca, “Samba Drumming” by Gilson Schori, and “Brazilian Percussion for Drumset” by Alex Acuna.
Brazilian Drumming in Popular Culture
The Influence of Brazilian Drumming on Global Music
Brazilian drumming has had a profound impact on global music, with its infectious rhythms and energetic beats. Here are some examples of how Brazilian drumming has influenced music around the world:
Samba in the Olympics
Samba is one of Brazil’s most well-known musical genres, and it has become synonymous with the country’s carnival celebrations. However, samba has also been featured in the opening ceremonies of the Olympics, showcasing Brazil’s musical heritage to a global audience.
Bossa Nova in Film
Bossa nova, a genre of Brazilian music that originated in the 1950s, has also had a significant impact on global music. The smooth, jazz-inspired beats of bossa nova have been featured in numerous films, including the classic film “A Man and a Woman” and the more recent “The Devil Wears Prada.”
Axé Music in Carnival
Axé music, a type of Brazilian pop music that originated in the northeastern state of Bahia, has become a staple of Brazil’s carnival celebrations. With its energetic beats and infectious melodies, axé music has spread beyond Brazil’s borders and can now be heard in clubs and festivals around the world.
Overall, Brazilian drumming has had a profound impact on global music, with its infectious rhythms and energetic beats inspiring musicians and audiences around the world.
The Future of Brazilian Drumming
As Brazilian drumming continues to evolve, its future remains bright with new and exciting developments on the horizon.
Evolution of Brazilian Drumming
Brazilian drumming has a rich history and has evolved over time, with new rhythms and styles emerging from different regions of the country. The future of Brazilian drumming will likely see further evolution and fusion with other musical genres, as well as continued innovation in instrument design and technology.
Collaboration with Other Genres
One exciting development in the future of Brazilian drumming is the increasing collaboration between Brazilian musicians and artists from other genres. This cross-pollination of styles and sounds is leading to the creation of new and innovative rhythms, as well as a broader recognition of the importance of Brazilian drumming in the global music scene.
The Role of Technology in Brazilian Drumming
Technology is also playing an increasingly important role in the future of Brazilian drumming. Digital tools and techniques are being used to create new sounds and rhythms, as well as to preserve and document traditional Brazilian drumming styles. This technology is also making it easier for musicians to collaborate and share their work with a wider audience, helping to keep the rhythmic heart of Brazil beating strong for generations to come.
FAQs
1. What are Brazilian drums called?
Brazilian drums are known by a variety of names, including “tamborim,” “caxixi,” “pandeiro,” “repinique,” “agogo,” and “surdo.” These drums are an essential part of Brazilian music, including samba, bossa nova, and Brazilian jazz. Each type of drum has its own unique sound and is played in a specific way to create different rhythms and melodies.
2. What is the tamborim?
The tamborim is a small, hand-held drum that is used in many types of Brazilian music. It has a distinctive, high-pitched sound and is played with the fingers or a small drumstick. The tamborim is often used to keep the rhythm in a samba band or to add accents to a bossa nova song.
3. What is the caxixi?
The caxixi is a type of frame drum that is used in Brazilian music. It is typically played with the hands and has a deep, resonant sound. The caxixi is often used to create a steady beat or to add emphasis to certain rhythms. It is a key instrument in many types of Brazilian music, including samba and bossa nova.
4. What is the pandeiro?
The pandeiro is a type of tambourine that is used in Brazilian music. It has a distinctive, bright sound and is played with the fingers or a small drumstick. The pandeiro is often used to add a lively, upbeat rhythm to a samba or bossa nova song.
5. What is the repinique?
The repinique is a type of Brazilian drum that is used in samba music. It has a deep, bassy sound and is played with the hands or a small drumstick. The repinique is used to create a steady beat and to add emphasis to certain rhythms in a samba band.
6. What is the agogo?
The agogo is a type of Brazilian drum that is used in samba music. It has a distinctive, staccato sound and is played with the hands or a small drumstick. The agogo is used to create a lively, syncopated rhythm in a samba band.
7. What is the surdo?
The surdo is a type of Brazilian drum that is used in samba music. It has a deep, bassy sound and is played with the hands or a small drumstick. The surdo is used to create a steady beat and to add emphasis to certain rhythms in a samba band. It is a key instrument in many types of Brazilian music, including samba and bossa nova.