*Scoil Chríost Rí students Finn Lavery, Sophia Ferkova and Amber McInerney with Kevin Corrigan and Cllr Mary Howard (FG). Photograph: John O’Neill
A SAMBA band is to be established in Ennis by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) and Chief Operating Officer of the Ennis 2040 DAC, Kevin Corrigan.
Commencing this Monday in the Community Centre in Cloughleigh at 7:30pm, the initiative endeavours to set up a samba band within the town of Ennis.
Monday’s gathering will be a free samba drumming taster session.
Cllr Howard told The Clare Echo, “Samba music is distinct for its characteristic rhythmic patterns that originated in Brazil. The rhythm is upbeat and joyful, Samba music also has influences from jazz as well as African music. We all know the benefits of learning to play music. It has been scientifically proven that playing music helps to combat depression, improves memory, teaches patience and increases mental sharpness”.
She said that samba bands provide participants with an immersive musical experience to engage them physically and mentally. Coordination, timing and listening skills will be improved by persons involved, she flagged. “Being part of a band also encourages teamwork and collaboration, allowing participants to develop their abilities to play in sync with others. In addition, as Samba music requires everyone to work together, it is an ideal vehicle to develop team work and enable participation from all demographics in the community,” the Ennis woman explained.
Corrigan who was appointed COO of Ennis 2040 DAC in September 2021 has taught samba drumming for many years. He has been a member of the Batafada Samba Band since 2006 which has given him the opportunity of performing nationally and internationally at locations including Disneyland in Florida and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
While the duo both sit on the Board of Ennis 2040 DAC, the venture is not connected to the spatial and economic strategy, The Clare Echo understands.
“Lots of fun” is guaranteed, Cllr Howard promised plus “the opportunity to meet new people both young and not so young”.
