Rhythm of the Samba

Claremont students find their Brazilian groove 

On Friday 30th January 2026, Claremont High School played host to percussion specialist, Kieran O’Riordan, who delivered a series of ‘Samba Drum Workshops’ throughout the day. Approximately 150 students took part, including GCSE pupils, Music Aptitude students and Music Ambassadors. The workshops were funded by the Jack Petchey Foundation. 

‘The purpose of the day,’ says Mr Rudd, ‘was to create fun and enjoyment whilst participating in ensemble music.’ 

Topics covered included: the geographical, cultural and historical context of Samba; an introduction to each of the main Samba instruments (surdo, tamborim, agogo bells, caixa and chocalho); standard rhythms associated with each instrument; and a round-robin experience of playing each type. 

‘We played a variety of different instruments from the Brazilian culture,’ explains Layla Hamid in Year 8. ‘I most enjoyed playing the agogo bells because I’d never played them before and they are a unique instrument.’ 

The workshop wasn’t without its challenges, though, as Ali Alhemyari in Year 10 reports: ‘The most difficult part was keeping in time with everyone else. We were split into groups across about five different instruments, all with different rhythms. Keeping track of your part got a bit tricky when everyone else was playing over you!’ 

Layla agrees: ‘Occasionally, it was difficult to get in time with the other instruments, especially as there were a range of different beats and paces.’  

But the rewards ultimately outweighed the challenges… 

‘I most enjoyed the end product when everyone played simultaneously,’ says Ali, ‘it really sounded like Samba music! From this experience, I will take away a new liking for percussion music and drumming.’ 

‘I will remember this as a fun and one-of-a-kind experience,’ adds Layla, ‘where I tried something I’d never done before.’