Bristol Samba

Bristol Samba is a much-loved community band of drummers and dancers bringing our unique Bristolian twist to the carnival rhythms of Brazil. We bring an infectious, joyful energy to our performances, and like nothing more than getting the crowd up and dancing at our gigs!

Bristol (School of) Samba was the second samba band to be established in the UK and we are celebrating our 40th birthday in 2026. Many of our members have gone on to play in and formed their own bands in the UK's vibrant samba scene, which now boasts over 100 bands nationwide.

We're a registered charity that promotes, supports and develops percussion-based music and related carnival arts particularly in our local community, and are proud to be part of so many iconic events in Bristol's performance calendar.

Based at The Trinity Centre in East Bristol, practice sessions in drumming and dance are held on Monday evenings. Dancers start all year round, and we have a new intake of learner drummers annually. No audition is required, just a passion to make and dance to great music! Contact us to join our waiting list.