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      Performing a samba reggae

      I can explain the context of the samba reggae and can perform the different rhythmic parts using untuned percussion.

      Copyrighted materials: to view and download resources from this lesson, you’ll need to be in the UK and

      Lesson 2 of 4
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      • Year 9

      Performing a samba reggae

      I can explain the context of the samba reggae and can perform the different rhythmic parts using untuned percussion.

      Copyrighted materials: to view and download resources from this lesson, you’ll need to be in the UK and

      Lesson details

      Key learning points

      1. Samba reggae is a form of samba originating in Bahia, Brazil. It is a fusion of traditional samba and reggae.
      2. The music is usually slower than traditional samba and the underlying beat emphasises the backbeat on the low surdo.
      3. The son clave and skank rhythm are also important.
      4. The caixa and repinique can accent their rhythms within a more complex semiquaver pattern.
      5. We have composed a main groove for samba reggae with a call and response break.

      Keywords

      • Backbeat - a rhythm where the 2nd and 4th beats of the bar are emphasised

      • Skank - a defining feature of reggae that emphasises off-beat quavers

      • Syncopation - a rhythm that emphasises (accents) notes sometimes referred to as 'off-beat'

      • Break - a short distinct rhythm, that interrupts the main groove

      • Semiquaver - a note that lasts for a quarter of a beat also referred to as a 16th

      Common misconception

      There is no particular correct way to hit a drum.

      There is a technique to performing any instrument. The two hand rhythms in the caixa and repinique require even quavers and care in developing even control across both hands. Practise this slowly at first using hands on knees.

      The lesson tasks could be done as a whole class and the suggested eight parts can be simplified. The task can be extended by using the optional advanced rhythms which encourage pupils to develop their technique. Take time to practise fluency in rhythmic changes so they become comfortable for pupils.
      Teacher tip

      Equipment

      Samba drums and percussion can be replaced with other unpitched percussion to replicate the instruments by pitch (high or low) such as bass and snare drums, congas, frame drums, djembes etc.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

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      Lesson appears in

      UnitMusic / Samba fusion