The focus of Samba New York’s curriculum is drumming. And when it comes to samba drumming in NYC, our organization is at the forefront.

Samba New York! has emerged as NYC’s premier training ground for samba percussionists. Our organization has graduated numerous players who have gone on to shake up the local Brazilian music scene. Director, Philip Galinsky, Ph.D. has served as the first samba teacher and mentor for leaders of such groups as Philly Bloco (Philadelphia), Frederick Douglass Academy’s Harlem Samba (NYC), and Mais Um (NYC).

Dr. Galinsky is personally responsible for the training of all the percussionists in Samba New York! from the beginner to professional levels. Many of the players in our professional Show Group were first introduced to samba as students in Samba New York!

One characteristic that sets Samba New York! apart is its professionalism. We only have one performance ensemble that is composed exclusively of professional players. Our students only get to perform with the professionals after successfully completing a rigorous training period — and only for select events.

Samba New York! features three levels of participation for percussionists. The entry-level workshop, Suíngue Carioca: An Immersion Course in Brazilian Samba Percussion offers a uniquely accessible method of learning the basics of samba drumming quickly, effectively, and in a fun, communal environment.

The third level — the Show Group — is the professional wing of Samba New York! Distinct from groups that hire freelance players on an event-by-event basis, our Show Group features a set lineup of talented in-house drummers (the Bateria) that rehearses weekly. This consistency contributes to the quality and refinement of the Samba New York! performance experience.

The second level is an opportunity to perform with the professional Show Group Bateria, which periodically supplements its ranks with additional qualified percussionists for select events throughout the year, such as the Dance Parade in May and the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade on October 31.

Prospective performers in the Bateria must have a command of the basics and an ability to play in the Samba New York! style — all of which is covered in Suíngue Carioca. They learn the current repertoire in the Bateria Rehearsal course, which is offered year-round.

Dedicated students in Samba New York! have a unique opportunity to move from the beginner course to participation in the Bateria and graduate as a professional samba percussionist. Many of the current members of our Show Group are living proof!

NOTE: Samba New York! is not currently offering group dance classes. We recommend the classes of Danielle Lima. Samba dancers of all levels are invited to participate with Samba New York! in the annual Greenwich Village Halloween Parade.

Please visit our Events page for a list of current classes. We also offer private lessons in samba percussion and dance for those seeking quicker progress. To schedule a private lesson or to reserve Samba New York! for a lecture or workshop, don’t hesitate to contact us.