Exploring the joyful rhythms and sounds of the Samba tradition of drumming the young people from a mixture of mainstream and ASN schools involved in this project worked collaboratively, sharing experiences, building friendships, confidence and gaining musical skills, culminating in showcase performances in Motherwell Concert Hall and in the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow.

The young people from the 12 schools involved in the project received 9 sessions with John and Marcia Dirkie from “Beats of Brazil” in preparation for their performances at Motherwell and Glasgow with pupils from mainstream and ASN schools working collaboratively in rehearsals.

The Samba sessions from Beats of Brazil offer total diversity for our pupils.  The sessions offer excellent and continuous experiential opportunities and fun for pupils whilst still offering progression and different levels for our more able pupils.  The sessions are something pupils look forward to and therefore there is a clear reduction in any challenging behaviours as pupils are always keen and excited when Beats of Brazil arrive at school.  John Bradshaw – Bothwellpark High School