MASAMBA SAMBA SCHOOL

Masamba Samba School is deeply committed to cultural respect, integrity, and responsibility in all aspects of our work. Our engagement with Afro‑Brazilian music and dance is rooted in long‑term study, direct cultural exchange, and a genuine respect for the communities from which these traditions originate. Members of Masamba have travelled on numerous occasions to Salvador, Brazil, to observe rehearsals, learn directly from practitioners, and deepen their understanding of the historical, social, and cultural contexts of samba and Bloco Afro traditions. We have also studied extensively with Brazilian musicians and artists both in Brazil and across Europe.  

​

Our artistic projects are developed through careful research and consultation. For example, our ‘Bloco Afro Brasil’ project involved almost a year‑long process to create music that is culturally authentic, using traditional samba percussion instruments built in Brazil and costumes commissioned from an experienced Brazilian carnival artist, Nilson Lourenço, whose guidance directly informed the design and presentation of the work. These choices reflect our commitment to accuracy, authenticity, and respect rather than imitation or simplification.  Furthermore, we recognise that Brazilian composers and choreographers are themselves drawing inspiration from a multiplicity of cultural sources, both within and outside Brazil. Culture is a continuum, and it is often impossible to attribute a cultural artefact such as a song, a rhythm or a musical instrument to any one time, place or people.

​

Masamba’s work has been presented to Brazilian audiences on multiple occasions, where it has been received positively and without complaint. Feedback from Brazilian participants has highlighted the depth of our knowledge and understanding of the samba tradition and its cultural significance. We also actively seek to reflect the diversity of Brazilian society in our performances, including collaboration with musicians and dancers representing Indigenous, African, and European heritages, and 50% of Masamba’s staff is Brazilian, and developed extensive skills and experience there, before relocating to Ireland.  

​

As a community music collective established in 1994, Masamba’s mission extends beyond performance. Our core work focuses on education, access, and community development, particularly with children and young people, people with disabilities, and communities experiencing social disadvantage. We view cultural practice as a living exchange based on learning, respect, and shared celebration, rather than ownership or exploitation. We would never knowingly misrepresent, trivialise, or show disrespect to the culture we hold in such high regard. 

​

If any aspect of our work should cause offence, we will acknowledge those concerns sincerely and view them as an opportunity for reflection and dialogue. Masamba remains committed to ongoing learning, accountability, and ethical cultural engagement, ensuring that our practice continues to honour the traditions, histories, and communities that inspire our work.