Samba in the Streets: A Community Percussion Jam with Troy Samba

Make Music Troy NY

Troy Samba will host a free, participatory Brazilian percussion jam session, inviting community members of all ages and experience levels to join in the music-making. This event will provide an interactive, hands-on experience, allowing participants to explore the rhythms of Samba, Maracatu, and Afoxé/Ijexá in a welcoming, informal setting.

How the RBI Percussion Kit Will Be Utilized:
To ensure accessibility and engagement for all attendees, the RBI percussion kit will be incorporated into the jam session as follows:
• Rhythm Sticks – Used to introduce participants to basic samba clave patterns and rhythmic call-and-response exercises, helping them integrate into the groove.
• Boomwhackers® C Major Diatonic Set – Introduced as a melodic percussive element, allowing participants to add harmonic texture to the rhythmic foundation. These will be particularly engaging for children and families.
• Egg Shakers – Distributed among attendees to create a continuous, driving pulse that enhances the overall energy of the jam. These are perfect for younger participants or those who prefer a simpler way to contribute.

These instruments will supplement Troy Samba’s traditional Brazilian drums (such as surdos, tamborims, pandeiros, and agogôs), ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or musical experience, has an opportunity to participate.

Participant Experience
• Open Drum Circle: Attendees will grab an instrument and jump into the rhythms, following the lead of Troy Samba musicians.
• Call-and-Response Rhythms: Simple, engaging rhythm patterns will be introduced using the RBI instruments, allowing participants to actively contribute.
• Spontaneous Parade & Dance: As the session builds, participants will be encouraged to move, clap, and interact with the drummers in a lively, energetic atmosphere.
This event aims to break down barriers to music participation while celebrating the vibrant, communal spirit of Brazilian percussion. With anticipated attendance of 50–100 people, the RBI percussion kit will play a key role in ensuring that everyone has access to an instrument and a way to join the music.

By providing a mix of accessible instruments and live drumming leadership, this program will foster a joyful, community-driven celebration of rhythm on Make Music Day 2025.

June 21, 2025

Presented with: