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PERCUSSION MEETS
Gal Costa
SAMBA ENSEMBLE
(Percussion Recording)
Author: Facundo Alvarez, Percussion teacher and Facilitator
Percussion meets is a series of videos that I created specially for my YouTube channel in which I produce and record new versions of famous songs from the percussion and vocals.
Percussion Meets is at the same time a way to learn and to play with music looking for new ways to express myself as a percussionist.
Each new song poses several rhythmic and musical challenges that I have to solve, and a unique musical path that leads to the original new versions of the different songs you´re going to find in this section.
The recording of these new versions are a combination of the original vocal track of the song and several percussion instruments that I record in my recording studio.
Along this series of videos I´ve been around rhythms and music all over the world.
🎶Percussion Meets “Gal Costa” 🎶
In this case the song I chose was “Acuarela do Brasil” by the Gal Costa, one of the classics song of Brasil Samba.
For this new version I decided to make an adaptation of the song to an Samba Rhythm played by an ensemble of Cajon Peruano.
For the percussion ensemble I recorded also some traditional brazilian instruments such as: Cuica, Agogó, Tamborim and Shaker.
I hope you enjoy this musical production!.
Thanks to visit my website
Facundo Alvarez
Learn to play percussion online
¡Choose the way to learn to Play Percussion
that best suits your times and needs!
Learn to Play Percussion: Bongó, Conga, Cajón, Djembé, Timbal Brasilero
Percussion Online Classes
In the Online Percussion Classes, I offers individual and face to face classes for you to start learn to play percussion from scratch and learn to play and make music with the percussion instrument you like – Bongó, Cajón, Conga, Djembé or Timbal Brasilero.
Percussion Online Courses
In the Online Percussion Courses I offer you different options for you to start to play percussion from scratch, develope as percussionist and learn to play and make music with the percussion instrument that you like: Bongo, Cajón, Conga, Djembé or Timbal Brasilero
Activities suitable to all ages and levels
You don´t need to have previous knowledges of music or percussion to get started.
Samba Rhythm
A Celebration of Brasil´s Culture and Rhythm
Introduction
Brazilian music is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse cultural influences, and at its heart lies the pulsating rhythm of Samba. This lively genre has deep roots in Brazilian culture and has captured the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, characteristics, and significance of Brazilian Samba rhythm and music.
The Roots of Samba
Samba traces its origins back to the vibrant cultural melting pot of Brazil, where African, Indigenous, and European influences merged in the late 19th century. Born in the favelas (slums) of Rio de Janeiro, Samba was an outlet for marginalized communities to express their joys, sorrows, and hopes through music and dance.
Characteristics of Samba Rhythm
1. Percussion Dominance: Samba is driven by a rich ensemble of percussion instruments. The surdo (bass drum), tamborim (small drum), pandeiro (tambourine), and cuíca (friction drum) are just a few of the instruments that create the distinct rhythm of Samba.
2. Syncopation and Polyrhythm: Samba is known for its intricate syncopated rhythms, where accents fall on off-beats, creating a lively, infectious groove. This polyrhythmic complexity is a hallmark of Samba music.
3. Call and Response: A common feature in Samba music is the call-and-response pattern, where one part of the ensemble (or a singer) initiates a phrase, and the rest respond in kind. This dynamic interaction adds a layer of spontaneity and energy to the music.
4. Versatility of Styles: While the term “Samba” is often used as a broad descriptor, there are various sub-genres within this musical family. These include Samba de Roda, Samba Enredo, and Samba-Reggae, each with its own distinct style and cultural context.
Gal Costa
Brazil´s timeless music icon
In the vibrant tapestry of Brazilian music, one name stands out as an enduring symbol of artistry, passion, and innovation: Gal Costa.
With a career spanning over five decades, Gal Costa has become a cornerstone of Brazilian popular music, captivating audiences around the world with her distinctive voice and eclectic repertoire.
Early Life and Influences
Maria da Graça Costa Penna Burgos, known by her stage name Gal Costa, was born on September 26, 1945, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Raised in a family deeply immersed in music, she was exposed to a diverse array of musical genres from an early age. This rich musical environment laid the foundation for her lifelong passion and talent.
Career Milestones
Gal Costa’s musical journey began in the 1960s, a pivotal era in Brazilian music history. She emerged as a central figure in the Tropicalia movement, a cultural and musical revolution that blended traditional Brazilian rhythms with avant-garde experimentation. Alongside luminaries like Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, and Tom Zé, Costa helped shape a new sonic landscape that challenged conventions and ignited imaginations.
Her eponymous debut album, released in 1969, marked the inception of a prolific discography that would span decades. Costa’s powerful, emotive voice and fearless exploration of various musical styles, from bossa nova to rock, samba to psychedelic, showcased her versatility and willingness to push artistic boundaries.
Global Impact
Gal Costa’s music transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, resonating with audiences across the globe. Her enchanting performances have graced renowned venues worldwide, earning her a dedicated international fan base. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, coupled with her magnetic stage presence, has solidified her status as a global musical icon.
Legacy and Influence
Gal Costa’s impact on the musical landscape extends far beyond her chart-topping albums and sold-out concerts. Her fearless pursuit of artistic evolution, coupled with a commitment to preserving Brazilian musical traditions, has inspired countless artists across generations. From pop stars to indie musicians, her influence can be heard in the work of artists worldwide who draw inspiration from her groundbreaking sound.
percussion facilitator
Facundo Alvarez
Percussion Facilitator
For 20 years I´ve dedicated myself to develope educational and recreational materials and experiences, with the goal of facilitate access to percussion learning to people of all ages
In all the projects I work motivated by the premise that "Percussion is for everybody" and that "Everyone can learn to play percussion".
My main goal is to help, as many people as I can, to live the unique experience of making music with percussion instruments.
