GBRT Carnival Drums
GBRT Carnival Drums are a Brazilian style percussion group based in Market Harborough. We’re always happy to welcome new members, so if you’d like to try something new that’s great fun, really sociable and excellent exercise for the brain and body, why not come and have a go?
All tuition is provided by a highly experienced Musical Director, and no previous musical knowledge or experience is required. All instruments are provided, and you don’t need to read music as all learning is done by call and response. The rehearsals are fast-paced and good fun, and each fortnight we leave with our bodies buzzing to a host of infectious Brazilian beats.
“It is great that we have this love of percussion music that brings us together no matter what our backgrounds…When I was working I found the repetition of playing the drums quite relaxing after a stressful day. I have been a member of this group since it started and it is my favourite activity.”
Join us
We are always very happy to welcome new members, aged 12 or over. If you’d like to have a go please do get in touch.
- No drumming experience needed
- Great for wellbeing and confidence
- Opportunities to perform at local events
- Friendly and welcoming group
- Instruments provided
- Free taster session
FAQs
When and where are rehearsals held?
7.45-9.30pm on the 1st, 3rd and sometimes 5th Tuesdays in term time at Great Bowden Village Hall, 40 The Green LE16 7EU. There is a short break in the middle of the rehearsal.
Is the venue accessible?
On street parking is available near to the hall. There is step free access via the side door to the hall (uses a ramp) and an accessible toilet is available.
How much does it cost?
£50 per term (£45 for under-18s) which covers venue hire, tuition and instruments.
Who can join?
Anyone aged 12 or over.
Do you offer a taster session?
Yes, we offer the first session as a free trial.
When are membership subs due?
Subs are due on 2nd January for the spring term, 1st May for the summer term and 1st September for the autumn term.
Do I need any musical experience?
No, we learn by call and response so you don’t need to be able to read music or have any previous experience.
Do I need my own instrument?
No, instruments are provided. We also provide a pair of earplugs to protect your ears.
What should I wear?
Drumming can be quite physical so wear comfortable clothes that you can move around in. We provide hoodies and t-shirts for performances.
Rehearsal Dates 2026/27
Autumn
1st, 15th September
6th, 20th October
3rd, 17th November
1st, 15th December
Spring
19th January
2nd, 16th February
2nd March
Summer
6th, 20th April
4th, 18th May
1st, 15th June
Musical Director: Ceri Howells
Ceri, a drummer and percussionist based in Nottingham, has been playing percussive instruments for well over twenty years and teaching and facilitating individuals and large groups for over a decade. He made his start in music on the drum kit which is where he still spends much of his time playing and teaching. As time progressed he found himself drawn towards music from all over the globe, becoming particularly fond of Brazilian musical traditions and Malaysian Gamelan along the way.
He has taken part in the World Gamelan Festival in Malaysia with Kayu Gangsa (a UK based group that uniquely fuses traditional Malaysian Gamelan composition with contemporary musical elements and western instruments). He was also part of a UK Samba Bateria that travelled to Rio de Janeiro for a series of performances as ‘Carnival Transatlantico’, where they were honoured to play some of the city’s most famous venues with a variety of fantastic Brazilian musicians.
“Ceri is an amazing teacher and a great chap, and people in the group are really nice and friendly. I go to yoga classes and do therapy sessions on a regular basis, and I can safely say that playing the drums with the group is definitely my favourite way to ease my anxiety, as during and after each rehearsal I feel great and energetic, specially after a tiring and stressful day or week."
