The Handphibians are devoted to teaching and preserving the cultural and musical traditions of Brazil. Membership In the Handphibians will provide you access to an extensive library of readings and music as well as meeting performers and masters of the Samba traditions. The below information will give you a glimpse into this rich history and a glimpse into what you can learn through membership with the Handphibians. As part of our continuing effort to promote Brazilian culture, The Handphibians offer workshops and seminars to bring the ideas and music of Brazil a little closer to home. We cater to children of all ages but can provide much more in depth lectures to those more proficient to the topic. Seminars are high energy, interactive and fun. Submit a booking request for more information

Jorge Alabe

Master drummer Jorge Alabê grew up in Rio de Janeiro immersed in the rich musical culture of Brazil, becoming a master in samba percussion as well as in the Afro-Brazilian religious tradition of candomblé. He is an “Alabê” connected with the oldest candomblé house established in Brazil, Casa Branca; the title of “Alabê” means that he has obtained the highest level in drumming and leading of rituals in the candomblé religion and signifies deep experience and authority http://www.jorgealabe.com/

Scott Kettner

For Kettner, the discovery of maracatu, an indigenous Brazilian rhythm, albeit one not ascelebrated internationally as samba and bossa nova, was a life-changing experience. Thegreat jazz drummer Billy Hart, who served as Kettner’ s instructor at New York’ s NewSchool University, first informed him of the mysterious music. “ He was turning me on toAfrican music from different regions,” says Kettner, “ and we started getting into Afro-Cuban rhythms and Brazilian rhythms. After a couple of years studying samba and bossanova, I asked him, ‘ Are there any other rhythms from Brazil that I should be learning?’He said, ‘ Yeah, man, there’ s this music called maracatu!’ http://scottkettner.com/, http://www.maracatuny.com/, http://www.nationbeat.com/