The Suffolk School of Samba is unique in that we combine choreographed dance and Brazilian percussion into every performance and therefore we have a 50/50 split between dancers and drummers in our membership. Though the odd person gives both a try, most prefer either to dance or drum. Please note: you must be 18 years of age or older to join. There is no upper age limit!

Keen to join our bloco of drummers? No experience necessary! If you have a heartbeat, you can learn to drum and we can teach you! If you are interested in joining us, please drop us an email (info@suffolksamba.com) and we'll give you details of our rehearsal times and venue and you are welcome to come along and have a go! You will start learning by doing straight away and you will know soon enough that it's for you!

Always wanted to be a Carnival Samba Dancer? Our induction workshops have now started and are closed to new dancers, but we will be holding them again in the autumn of 2010. If you are interested in taking part in those, please feel free to get in touch. In the meantime, you are welcome to give drumming a go (see above) while you wait for your chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get in touch?
Email: info@suffolksamba.com, or call the SSSamba-line: 01473-725527

How much time and money do I need to commit?
The Suffolk School of Samba is a non-profit performing group that derives almost all its income from performance fees. This means:
- the financial cost to members is very low (only £10 annual membership fee and £1 in the box at every rehearsal)
- we ask members to try to attend as many rehearsals and performances as they can possibly make (but we know people have lives): performing is what we do and how we fund ourselves.
(Please note, there is usually a charge for workshops and courses - this is to cover the cost of rent and tutor fees.)

When and where are rehearsals?
Rehearsal is every Thursday evening (with the odd exception) at St Peter's Church (opposite the Novotel roundabout where Grey Friars Rd, Star Ln, College St and Bridge St meet).
18:45 - Dance rehearsal starts
19:30 - Joint Dance and Band rehearsal
20:30 - Band rehearsal starts
21:25 - Pack away and done!

When and where does Suffolk School of Samba perform?
The main gigging season is between June and September (but there is the odd gig outside these dates). We perform all over, but mostly in East Anglia as we are based in Suffolk. On occasion we drift further afield and have been seen in London, Sandwich (Kent), Brighton, Manchester, Dublin, Berlin, Notting Hill and Liverpool! But our heart is in Suffolk and we love to perform right here.

What is the age group of the members?
Our only stipulation is that you have to be at least 18 years of age and have a pulse. There is no upper age limit while you are still physically able to take part.

Why can't I join in with the dancers at any time?
Over the last few years our dance choreography has become more complex. This means that there is much to learn before a new dancer can perform at a gig. Learning the dance material is cumulative process that starts way before the gig-season and continues throughout!

The drumming looks difficult. Will I be able to learn?
Short answer: yes! New drummers join in with the main group immediately and leaders spend as much time as possible teaching you the rhythms. It's not hard; all it takes is practice.

I have more questions!
If your questions are not answered here, email or phone us or pop into rehearsal and ask.