About the Drum Section (Bateria)

The samba school’s drum section, or bateria, is composed of more than 40 drummers and is modeled after the samba schools in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. We primarily play samba, but the rhythms we play are not exclusive to Rio. We also play samba reggae (from Bahia), and throw in our own spice, often playing adaptations of various African, Cuban, New Orleans, funk and other rhythms.

The bateria consists of caixas, surdos, chocalhos, timbals, repeniques, tamborims and agogôs.

Joining the Bateria

Everyone is welcome at the school and we encourage folks to drop by open rehearsals and observe. That said there are particular ways to join the drum section.

Join during the New Member Boot Camp

During late spring and mid-fall, after the traditional Carnaval season, we offer classes to introduce new players to the basic rhythms and techniques of samba drumming. All skill levels are welcome, though some experience with drumming is preferred. We provide drums. All new players start on caixa (snare) or surdo (bass drum).

The next Austin Samba Drummer Boot Camp has been DELAYED until early 2027.

Time and Location TBD. Stay tuned!!!

Everyone is welcome!

After the classes, all newbies are encouraged to begin attending regular rehearsals. See below for information about "leveling up" into the performance groups.

Joining the Bateria “Out of Season”

If you are interested in joining the bateria “out of season,” i.e., a time other than during the spring beginner classes, you will need to have an intake evaluation before playing with the school.

To schedule an intake evaluation, contact Renzo Hayashi.

bateria levels

The Austin Samba performing bateria is broken down into five levels: Community, Parade Bateria, Intermediate Bateria, Performance Bateria, and Grupo Especial.

Community
This bateria group is composed of all members of the Austin Samba bateria that have completed the new member samba boot camp or have had an intake evaluation (see above). Community members are now able to join us for regular rehearsals and begin to learn the ropes.

Parade Bateria
This bateria group is composed of all Community members of the Austin Samba bateria that have shown the ability to consistently play all the rides for each of the standard rhythms that are used in parade-level events.

Intermediate Bateria 
Once a Parade Bateria member has progressed enough to play consistently and display familiarity with most of our repertoire and is able to perform coherently with the rest of the group, then they join the Intermediate Bateria. These members will perform at choice performances throughout the year.

Performance Bateria 
Members of the Performance Bateria have met certain higher level criteria to become part of this group. The Performance Bateria is composed of drummers that perform at major gigs including Brazil Day, Carnaval Brasileiro, HONK!TX, Zilker Hillside Theatre, and more.

Grupo Especial
This bateria is a much smaller group of the most advanced players that plays at higher-profile events such as corporate parties and weddings. Grupo Especial has no set membership and is pulled together based on skill level, availability and need.

Section leaders and directors determine who becomes part of each Bateria based on very specific criteria which include skill level, knowledge of the material, and commitment to the school (regular attendance, etc.)