Let’s Get Creative: Brazilian Batucada Workshop at High Tide Festival

Join the “Brazilian Batucada”, a workshop designed for children aged 4 to 13 and their families, led by artist Aleh Ferreira as part of the High Tide festival program.

Experience the rich Afro-Brazilian rhythms in a fun and relaxed environment, where you and your children will explore the world of percussion.

After the workshop, the High Tide stage will occupy the Orleans House Gallery lawn, featuring Brazilian music and a variety of foods. Families are invited to spend the day enjoying the vibrant festival atmosphere. 

Workshop Details: 

• First Session: 10:45 – 11:45am 

• Second Session: 12:00 – 1:00pm  

• Free of charge, choose one session to participate in; space is limited to one session per child; only choose tickets for children taking part 

• Instruments will be provided on site. 

At 1:00pm the High Tide music stage will start.

About the workshop 

During the workshop, children and their families will engage in sensory activities, playing various percussion instruments and fitting the sounds into brief musical exercises inspired by traditional rhythms and their adaptations in pop music.

The term Batucada originated in Rio de Janeiro from gatherings of samba and capoeira enthusiasts who formed a circle where they sang and clapped. Suddenly, a participant would enter the centre of the circle and create a dance that mixed samba and capoeira until another participant would come in and try to perform a capoeira move called “rasteira” on the dancer, who always dodged it. Later, the term came to designate groups of rhythmists playing any percussion instruments. 

About the Artist 

Brazilian singer and songwriter Aleh Ferreira is best known as the leader of the legendary Brazilian funk band “Banda Black Rio.” His music originates from the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture. The son of an Umbanda priestess, his musical inspiration comes from the drums and melodies of the “terreiro” that gave birth to Samba and influenced modern music. His warm and distinctive voice, samba-funk grooves, and lyrics celebrating Afro-Brazilian heritage have earned him a three-decade career around the world. Having shared the stage with artists such as Ed Motta, Seu Jorge, and Daniela Mercury, and having won various national and international awards for his work as a performer, film and TV soundtrack composer, and producer, Aleh is one of the most prominent figures in Brazilian Popular Music (MPB) in the diaspora. 

About the High Tide Festival 

High Tide Festival is a community-led event that aims to rekindle the vibrant spirit of Eel Pie Island’s golden era in the heart of Twickenham. The festival gathers a diverse lineup of the best emerging and established bands and musicians across 18 stages. One of the highlights will be at Orleans House Gallery, where a special stage will showcase Brazilian music and Dub influences. Performances will include Gary Stewart and Dubmorphology, as well as the band Beloved George. Additionally, there will be an Afro-Brazilian heritage presentation by Musica com Dende.

High Tide is conducting a crowdfunding campaign to ensure the festival continues bringing vibrant music and culture to the community. Your contribution makes a difference.