Summer Bateria Classes with EducArte

Spend your summer immersed in the powerful, collective groove of Brazilian carnival with EducArte’s Bateria drumming class for adults, presented in partnership with Levine Music at its Silver Spring campus. In this weekly session, you will learn the high-energy samba percussion rhythms that drive Rio-style street parades, with a focus on solid technique, ensemble playing, and musicality. Classes meet at Levine Music’s Silver Spring campus on the following dates: Thursday, July 2 Thursday, July 9 Wednesday, July 15 Wednesday, July 22 Thursday, July 30 All classes run from 6:30-8:00pm. All sessions are drop-in at a $25 rate, giving you flexibility to join when you can while still experiencing the energy of a live samba ensemble. You’ll get hands-on experience with key bateria instruments such as surdo, caixa, tamborim, repique, and more, rotating through different parts of the ensemble as you build confidence in timing, feel, and coordination. All instruments are provided, so you can simply show up, explore, and play—no need to bring your own gear. This class is designed for adult learners of all backgrounds: complete beginners, hobbyists, seasoned musicians, semi-professionals, and music educators looking to expand their rhythmic toolkit. No experience is necessary, and our instructors will meet you where you are, balancing clear, structured instruction with the fun and energy of group music-making. Over the course of the summer, the group will prepare one performance opportunity, giving participants the option to share their new skills with the community. The class is taught by Hugo Vásquez, a samba percussionist from Santiago, Chile, who has studied and performed with various samba schools in Rio de Janeiro and directed the percussion sections of multiple samba and samba-enredo groups, including nearly a decade as director of the bateria of GRES Alegria de Barcelona (Spain) . Co-instructor Pablo de Oliveira is an experienced Brazilian cavaquinho player, percussionist, and ensemble leader who specializes in authentic samba style and collaborative group work, helping adult students feel comfortable, energized, and musically challenged in a supportive environment. Together, Hugo and Pablo create a welcoming space where adults can de-stress, connect with others, and experience the joy of playing samba in a live ensemble Questions about payments or registration? Contact Levine student services at sservices@levinemusic.org or (202) 686-8000.