John
Caixa and Repinique
A relatively new member, I joined Street Heat in Oct 2019 having just moved to Somerset that summer after 20+ years in Lincoln. Previously I played with a small Samba group in Newark before joining Nottingham School Of Samba in 2012 mainly on Surdo initially, then moving onto Repinique and Caixa. I have had an interest in drums and percussion for years, ever since jamming with Djembe groups at festivals many years ago and buying myself a set of congas ! I completed an 8 week ‘Roots of Brazil’ music course with Dudu Tucci in Germany between 2012 and 2014 and have participated in numerous workshops with JP Courtney (recommended).
As soon as I attended one of the beginners sessions with Street Heat, I knew I wanted to join….the beats, the moves, the vibe, friendliness and organisation, all positive ! Samba for me means fun, friendship, meeting people and of course pounding uplifting rhythms! It’s sometimes hard work learning new rhythms and new instruments but always enjoyable ! I recommend it to anyone, especially the gigs !