Performing a samba reggae
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the context of the samba reggae and can perform the different rhythmic parts using untuned percussion.
Key learning points
- Samba reggae is a form of samba originating in Bahia, Brazil. It is a fusion of traditional samba and reggae.
- The music is usually slower than traditional samba and the underlying beat emphasises the backbeat on the low surdo.
- The son clave and skank rhythm are also important.
- The caixa and repinique can accent their rhythms within a more complex semiquaver pattern.
- 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.
Teacher tip
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.
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
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which country did Samba originate from?
Q2.Match the samba instruments with the correct definition.
Q3.What does the sambista normally play?
Q4.What is a backbeat?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which beats are emphasised by the bass surdo (macação) in samba reggae?
Q2.Which instrument plays on beats 1 and 3?
Q3.Match the following words to the correct definitions.
Q4.Which two drums in samba reggae are commonly played with two sticks?
To help you plan your 9 music lesson on: Performing a samba reggae, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 music lesson on: Performing a samba reggae, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 music lessons from the Samba fusion unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.