The workshops explored movement and phrasing from the Afro Cuban/ Brazilian traditions of the Orixás as well as contemporary influences to show how knowledge of Afro-centric roots styles can inspire and help develop new original work. Participants learned how to build a performance based on two different contemporary rhythms with dance and song.
The Drum & Bass material was very exciting to play and used dynamics to create tension and excitement. Special attention was paid to technique and polyrhythms to give participants the tools to play and perform Drum & Bass. The ‘Funky Plus Fours’ groove explored the use of space in music, and had interesting improvisational elements, particularly for the bass drum section. Dance work combined movements and phrasing from Brazilian Candomblé with a modern, funky street style.
A percussionist since before 1980, first turned his ear to samba, Brazilian and Cuban traditions after living and studying drums, thumb pianos and marimbas in Tanzania – 82/83. It was joining the Bristol School of Samba that convinced him of the creative and inclusive power of samba and bateria type ensembles.
A few years later, whilst studying congas with Frankie Malabe in New York (at the Harbor School of Music), he came to appreciate how traditional knowledge/ technique can lead to greater freedom and creative expression in percussion music. With this view, traditional forms don’t have to be seen as prescriptive; they are an evolving, creative gateway to a world of rhythmic explorations.
Directorial duties over the past 20 years (Samba Galez since 1990), being a musician, a composer (film, theatre, dance), and animateur plus international touring and studies have enriched and established an interesting career in music, and in getting people involved in making music. He is experienced in leading large ensembles and working symbiotically with groups to help them reach their potential.
Sallie established herself as a dance teacher and performer over 20 years ago, moving into Contemporary and Jazz dance and founding the ‘Tartan Angels’ dance company in 1989.
She studied percussion for two and a half years with Dudu Tucci while studying Candomblé dance and song with Murah Soares. Her current passion is ‘En Masse’, a twelve piece company of percussionists and dancers which she co-founded and artistically directs. Also a talented singer, she is always working on new material for various projects including recording.
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