Baque de Axé is a dynamic London-based percussion band celebrating the rich traditions of Afro-Brazilian culture, affiliated with one of the oldest surviving Maracatu bands, Nação do Maracatu Porto Rico.
We are a self-funded, community band that wants to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone to express themselves and learn, along with celebrating the joy and culture of Maracatu!
Our musicians and dancers not only perform around the country but also offer classes and participate in outreach programmes, fostering a love for music, culture and community.
Why We Need You:
In the current climate, as many others, we’re facing increased costs for rehearsal/storage space, transport, instrument and artisan costume maintenance…
In these challenging times, we believe music is more important than ever. Your support will enable us to enhance our performances, expand our outreach programs and bring the joyous spirit of Maracatu to new audiences. Together, we can keep this vibrant tradition alive and thriving.
In the short term, we are looking for support to help us with our Notting Hill Carnival preparations, event of cultural significance and a celebration of freedom throughout the entire Caribbean and the Caribbean diaspora.
How You Can Help:
- Donate: Every contribution helps us reach more people and improve our offerings.
- Share: Spread the word about our campaign and events.
- Join Us: Become part of our community and experience the joy of Maracatu firsthand.
Who are we?
Baque de Axé is a London based band playing 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 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 their music and culture. On his return to London our name was changed to Baque de Axé. We became affiliated to Nação do Maracatu Porto Rico in the songs and rhythms we play, and with a continuous engagement with the community members
We aim to enhance awareness of the history of the Maracatu Naçãos (nations) of Brazil, of the Afro-Brazilian background of the slave trade, of Candomblé, a religion practiced in Brazil, and of the Maracatu music of today that is derived from these traditions. ‘Axé’ is a Yoruba word, which crossed the Atlantic to Brazil, originally meaning the spiritual power and energy bestowed upon practitioners by the pantheon of Orixás, the Yoruba gods. For us this becomes the communal spirit and strength that performing arouses in us.
Aside of the range of percussion and dance classes for all levels of experience we offer, we also organise and collaborate in outreach programmes across London and Brazil.
In the medium term, our objective is to build links with schools and community centres and develop consistent, regular engagement with different communities across London. In the long term we would like to build upon our connections in London and Brazil to further develop this dialogue between communities and cultures.