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    \ Portland Samba Classes
    The Reser Presents
    Portland Samba Classes
    The Reser Presents

    Portland Samba Classes

    Date March 16, 2025 11:30am Pricing $25

    In this 4 week series we will learn the foundations of Rio style Samba Batucada through playing technique as well as how the different drum voices contribute to the ensemble. This style of drumming is practiced with the drums worn on the body and the drums can be heavy. Accommodations can be made if plenty of notification is given before class. All instruments, sticks and straps will be provided. Just bring yourself and an open mind. Aside from the foundational techniques we will also learn about the cultural context of Samba in Brazilian society and the role these Samba communities play in political resistance and uplifting black consciousness in Rio de Janeiro. We will touch briefly on other styles of samba from other parts of Brazil and geography. We will briefly watch some videos showing samba school bateria performances to give us a full understanding of the art form.

    Instruments will be provided.

    Classes take place on Sundays: 11:30 AM-12:30 PM

    March 16
    March 23
    March 30
    April 6

    Individual Classes are $25 / $20 for Seniors.
    If you purchase four or more of our spring classes in one order, receive a 20% discount. (Discount will be automatically applied in your cart.)

    A signed waiver is required to attend classes.

    Senior: $20 / 4+ discount $16

    Class: $25 / 4+ discount $20

    The class is limited to 20 students.

    Location: The LAB at The Reser

    Teacher: Courtney Danley

    About the Instructor:

    Courtney Danley multi-percussionist fluent in Brazilian styles. She has been playing piano/percussion since the age of 7 performing in elite youth and adult ensembles in a range of styles including marching percussion, Drum Corps International, band and wind ensembles, modern percussion ensembles, Senegalese styles, and Brazilian percussion. Her passion is curating community through music practice and performance fueled by love of Samba culture. She strongly believes that music and culture rooted in the African Diaspora has a lot to teach us in North America about connections to each other, our communities and ourselves. Courtney also feels strongly about creating a safe space for women to pursue their oft denied dream of playing percussion.

    Currently, Courtney is a co-director and co-founder of Portland Samba, is producing 360° immersive videos of samba school baterias for her YouTube channel GoSamba and is the Secretary for the Percussive Arts Society Oregon Chapter.

    The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts Education and Community Program’s mission is to awaken creativity in all of us by providing access to exceptional arts learning experiences to lifelong learners, students, educators, and families in our community.

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