The Handphibians with Grupo Balança

The Handphibians' mission is to provide opportunities for community members to learn about the cultural traditions and music of Brazil; to act as a point of contact and to actively promote networks among members of the Brazilian music community in the US; to showcase traditional Brazilian music in a performance or educational setting; and to have fun in the process. The Handphibians are modeled after the Brazilian baterias (percussion batteries) of the Escolas de Samba in Rio de Janeiro, Blocos Afros of Salvador, and the Maracatu Naçãos of Recife. Their music is also naturally influenced by the percussion traditions of Cuba, Africa, and even good ol' Wisconsin. Founded in 1990s by Robert Schoville, the Handphibians are based in Madison, Wisconsin and are comprised of all voluntary community members of all ages and musical backgrounds.  Grupo Balanca will be opening for the Handphibians. Grupo Balança is a Madison-based ensemble of top-tier musicians who perform Brazilian samba pagode. This music consists of a small group of singers, percussion and plucked instruments. It is an uptempo and exuberant pop music found in parties, concerts, and other celebrations in Brazil, with roots stemming from Afro-Brazilian drumming traditions.