Roda de Samba is a popular event in Brazil, where a group of musicians gather in a circle to play samba, one of the most famous Brazilian rhythms. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IlBRYKrIQE
Alda Rezende
Known for the originality of her voice and the musical quality of her repertoire. She has released three solo albums and has done many other collaborations. Alda has performed alongside some important Brazilian artists, such as Elza Soares and João Bosco. In NZ she participated in the project OE Brazil, released the album Traveller, has performed in many festivals and is currently also member of Zirigidum.
Isabella Rovo
From Brasilia, Brazil's capital, Isabella sings and plays guitar with the groove of samba, bossa-nova and other regional rhythms. In New Zealand since the beginning of 2008, Isabella participates in Wellington Batucada and put together the musical groups Brazealand and Roda de Samba, which perform a variety of Brazilian styles. http://www.brazealand.blogspot.com/
Julie Bevan
Studied guitar at the NZ School of Music and has recorded several cds, recorded for film, tv and radio. She has traveled to Brazil several times to study Brazilian music and leads many groups dedicated to performing this style in NZ. These groups have performed in many festivals, including the NZ International Festival of Arts. Currently she is working on a number of compositions to be recorded in Brazil in 2009.
Darryn Sigley
Is a Wellington musician who has been heavily influenced by Brazilian Music and Culture. He was introduced to Samba at University and has continued to experience samba as musical director of Wellington Batucada and in Brazil and overseas with various projects. Darryn has appeared with Kiwi bands such as Fly my Pretties, Blackseeds and Batucada Sound Machine.
Ze Leal
percussionist from Bahia - the strongest drumming state in Brazil – performs a great variety of rhythms. In his hometown he played with ‘Tio Barnabé’, one of the most famous group in North Eastern Brazil specialized in forró and also supported other groups such as the internationally known Olodum. In New Zealand he is member of Brazealand and heads a new group ‘Funk Junk’, which plays on recycled instruments.