RIO DE JANEIRO — In a classical orchestra, the precise movements of a conductor signal the start and conduct the rhythm and dynamics of a performance. Similarly, subtle hand gestures are crucial to synchronizing the intense drumming during Rio de Janeiro’s grand Carnival parades.
About 70,000 spectators fill the stands each night of the parade, eager to admire the vibrant costumes, massive floats, and breathtaking dancers. For samba enthusiasts, however, the true heart of the celebration lies in the drumming. The conductor’s skilled hand movements metamorphose what could be chaotic noise into a harmonious and captivating musical experience.
The percussionists use globally recognized instruments such as snare and bass drums, as well as traditional instruments native to the area like the tamborim hand drum, the cuica friction drum, the double-sided repique, chocalhos, and the agogo, which has roots in West Africa. The famed Mocidade Independente samba school boasts an impressive section of 240 drummers.
Situated in Vila Vintem, a working-class neighborhood in western Rio, Mocidade is celebrated for its well-trained drummers and iconic drum leaders, such as José Pereira da Silva, fondly known as “Mestre André.” He pioneered the “little stop” technique, a strategic percussion pause that accentuates crucial parts of a samba school’s lyrics—a staple of their performance for the past six decades.
“The drum section functions as a grand orchestra, if not greater, because all involved are musicians, people trained in their craft though not formally educated like traditional orchestra members,” explained Carlos Eduardo Oliveira, known as “Mestre Dudu,” Mocidade’s drum master for the past 14 years.
Mestre Dudu communicates with drum directors throughout the section, directing changes in groove and ensuring synchronicity in the beat that forms the theme song of the Carnival parade. “There exists this mutual understanding, our unique language,” he stated. “Within the section’s core, I have 16 directors. I give a signal, and it’s mirrored by them to guide the rhythmist.”
Unlike some schools that allow tourists to join, Mocidade maintains tradition by including only locals in its drum sections. They proudly take to the Sambadrome as the opening school on the final night of Carnival parades.
Romualdo Gomes, a professional musician who drums for the love of it with Mocidade, ensures he keeps an eye on the directing figure maintaining the rhythm. “It’s imperative to follow the director,” he shared. “Attention is crucial to execute every groove perfectly.”
The drum section plays continuously during a school’s entire parade, aiming to retain both tempo and flair over 70 to 80 minutes. Carnival judges assess performances on ten-point categories, including drumming, with a focus on creativity, coherence, and alignment with the school’s theme.
Irineu Franco Perpétuo, a classical music critic, equated the maestros of Carnival with classical conductors, highlighting the critical role their timing and leadership play. The drumming section often acts as the tiebreaker when schools reach similar scores, with a flawless drum performance holding as much esteem as any classical achievements.
“They are the directors of this monumental popular opera that epitomizes our Carnival,” Perpétuo expressed. “Their challenge is to maintain rhythmic accuracy without haste or delay, ensuring unity in performance.”
