Samba

Batuque

Hilário Jovino Ferreira

Ernesto Santos (Donga) 2 (1972)

Samba dance pattern

Ismael Silva

Heitor dos Prazeres, 1961

Samba is a popular form of dance and music originating from Brazil, with roots that can be traced back to Africa through the Atlantic slave trade. It is recognized worldwide as a symbol of Brazilian culture, particularly associated with the Carnival celebrations that take place annually in the weeks leading up to Lent. Samba embodies a rich cultural heritage, combining elements of Portuguese and African influences, which have evolved over time into various styles and forms.

History

The origins of Samba are linked to the African slaves who were brought to Brazil from the 16th century onwards. These slaves brought their music and dance traditions, which blended with the local Indigenous and European (primarily Portuguese) cultural elements. The word "samba" is thought to have its roots in the Angolan term "semba," which refers to a type of ritual music. Over the centuries, samba evolved in the Brazilian state of Bahia and later spread to Rio de Janeiro, where it became associated with the emerging Carnival festivities.

In the early 20th century, samba began to gain national recognition in Brazil, especially with the recording of "Pelo Telefone" in 1917, considered the first samba composition. This period marked the beginning of samba's commercial success and its establishment as a key component of Brazilian identity.

Styles and Variations

Samba encompasses a wide range of styles, each with its own characteristics and traditions. Some of the most well-known include:

- Samba de Roda: A traditional form of samba from Bahia, characterized by its circular dance formation. It was declared a Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. - Samba-enredo: Performed by Samba schools during Carnival parades, this style is narrative in nature, telling a story through its lyrics. - Pagode: A more relaxed, melodic variant of samba that emerged in the 1980s, featuring a smaller ensemble with instruments like the cavaquinho and pandeiro. - Samba de Gafieira: A ballroom dance that evolved from samba, incorporating elements of Tango and Swing dance.

Cultural Significance

Samba is more than just music and dance; it is a reflection of the Brazilian way of life, embodying themes of community, resilience, and joy. It plays a central role in Carnival, a festival that attracts millions of visitors from around the globe to Brazil every year. The samba parade, featuring elaborate floats and costumes, is a highlight of the festival, showcasing the creativity and skill of the samba schools.

Influence and Legacy

The influence of samba extends beyond Brazil, contributing to the development of other music genres such as Bossa Nova and Samba Rock. Internationally, samba has been embraced as a symbol of Brazilian culture, performed and celebrated in various cultural festivals around the world.

See Also

• Carnival of Brazil
• Music of Brazil
• Dance of Brazil

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