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A bit about me!:
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* * * PLEASE NOTE, rehearsals will resume again soon, please check back here for updates * * *
A place for past, present and future Sambangra members!
Sambangra have been the pride of Manchester's vibrant drumming scene for more than a decade, and the only band for hundreds of miles that plays mostly original music.
We get together every Tuesday evening (currently in whatever venue we can find - until we get a new permanent home) from 7:30 until 10pm, and everyone's welcome to come along. Using samba drums, plus extra djembes and the occasional dhol, Sambangra's rhythms use traditional techniques to produce cutting-edge grooves influenced by ska, funk, hip-hop, reggae, bhangra and even salsa, with a hint of Sufi music and grooves from South and West Africa.
Sambangra's MD, Ian, has created a combination of rhythms that are accessible to beginners with some that will challenge accomplished percussionists so that everyone can contribute at their own level.
As well as the usual street performances and the occasional procession, Sambangra has collaborated with an impressive list of professional musicians over the years, including a ten-piece Qawwali group from Pakistan, and many accomplished instrumentalists whose 'day job' is accompanying people like Moby, Jah Wobble, Nitin Sawnhey and even Elton John.
On a Tuesday night, the emphasis is on everyone enjoying playing their best and learning at their own pace. Being relaxed and having fun is essential, not only to making the music as funky as possible, but (more importantly) to getting the most out of the social, physical, emotional and spiritual benefits that come from drumming in groups.
Come along and have a go!
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We're taking a little time to work out a new structure for the new Sambangra, since Ian, our musical director for many years, is relocating to Scotland.
We will be having rehearsals and will advertise when these are set up.
If you are interested in coming along, please contact me directly or via this group. The same applies if you are interested in having an organisational role with us.
Exciting times are ahead for Sambangra!
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