What we’re about
Baque de Axé are a London based band of musicians and dancers performing traditional Maracatu Carnival percussion music from Recife in Pernambuco, Brazil. Affiliated with one of the oldest surviving Maracatu bands, Nação do Maracatu Porto Rico, we play in concert halls and clubs, parade in street carnivals, perform at private events (https://www.baquedeaxe.com/events), teach workshops and classes in percussion and dance (https://www.baquedeaxe.com/dance).
We perform a style of Maracatu called ‘Maracatu de Baque Virado’ Portuguese for ‘Maracatu of the turning beat', reflecting the syncopation and interaction of the beats. This traditional form of carnival parading, percussion and dance has deep roots in Afro-Brazilian traditions and is a major form of carnival in Recife, Brazil.
We were formed by our leader Sam Alexander back in 2002 under the original name of Maracatu Estrela do Norte. During an extended trip to Brazil in 2017 Sam stayed with Nação do Maracatu Porto Rico in the community of Bode in Recife, spending 6 months immersed in thier music and culture. On his return to London our name was changed to Baque de Axé, and we became affiliated to Nação do Maracatu Porto Rico in the songs and rhythms we play.
We are a community based group that encourages people to participate from all backgrounds and levels of experience, and are always on the hunt for new members interested in participating in workshops about the music of the north east of Brazil, and performing as part of Baque de Axé in our shows and carnival parades.
There is more information here (https://www.baquedeaxe.com/dance), and we invite all those interested to get in touch.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Maracatu and Orixá dance courseMaxilla Hall Social Club, London£60.00
Our growing dance section is always open to new members, and beginners are always welcome – no previous experience is required. Our group of dancers and percussionists is a friendly family of people from all over the world who have come together to meet new people and share a love for music, dance, and expression. Joining our classes is not just an opportunity to learn something new, it's a chance to meet a new group of people who regularly organise social events and perform together at events across London and the UK.
In this 4 week dance course we will teach dance choreography for Maracatu, including a continuation of the Orixa steps covered in our dance course from last autumn. (You do not have to attended the autumn 2024 dance course to attend this course.)
The classes are taught by Gladys who is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She is a professional Brazilian, ballroom, and Latin dancer, teacher, choreographer and producer. She has performed all over Europe, Middle Eastern, Africa, and Asia, and has a wealth of experience teaching Brazilian and Latin dances for all ages and nationalities.
The sessions take place alongside Baque de Axé’s percussion rehearsals, bringing the true experience of Maracatu with live percussion and song.
Dates
📅 Monday 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th June
⏰ 7–9pmLocation
📍 Maxilla W10 6SW near Latimer Road Open in Google mapsCost
£60 for x4 2 hour lessons.Language
The course will be held in English with Portuguese translation available on request.
