The Soul of the Drum

Samba Kingston is an organization modeled after the many schools around the world who carry on the tradition of the Brasilian Escola de Samba (Samba School). The organization is three years old now and has hosted many workshops and fundraisers in it’s short lifetime. Samba Kingston supports an 18-player samba, funk and reggae group called Wuawuanco (pronounced wa-wan-co) Todos. The group is community based and open to anyone interested in working with other musicians to make energetic, rhythm-centric music.

On Saturday, April 5th, Samba Kingston will be presenting Wuawuanco Todos along with Latin recording artist Mauro and his Latinfusion band at the downtown Hellenic Centre at 121 Johnson Street. The goal of this event is to raise funds for Akamuri Centre located in Bujumbura, the Capitol City of Burundi in Eastern Africa. The Akamuri Centre is a school and rehabilitation centre for children with disabilities. At school they use Burundi Drumming as a means of leisure for the children but also for their rehabilitation. However, over half of their drums are in disrepair. Money raised will go towards drum repairs and the rehabilitation of Burundi youth who are survivors of poverty, war, land mines and an underfunded community service for people with physical disabilities.

Also involved in the event will be CFRC DJ Lola from Friday night’s Lola’s Lounge, Brasilian samba dance lessons, a show of Kingston based samba dancers and a presentation from Samba Ottawa.

Tickets are available at Brian’s Record Option at 381 Princess or at the door for $12. The ticket price includes late night snacks and the event is licenced. Doors open at 8:30pm, dance lessons begin at 9:30pm with a full show to follow.