Batala

Batala is a worldwide network of Brazilian samba-reggae percussion bands that originates in Brazil. It is formed by Giba Gonzales of Salvador, and operates as a community-based, voluntary project centred on playing music, meeting people and taking part in group performance.

The different Batala bands come together several times a year to appear as one ensemble at events including Salvador Carnival, Notting Hill Carnival and Fête de la Musique. The network has bands in Brazil, France, the UK, the USA, Spain, Austria, the Netherlands, Guadeloupe and South Africa, with more continuing to develop.