Meet the team: Faces of the Rhythm
Meet Giba
Giba Gonçalves, born in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, is a dynamic artist who actively blends his skills as a dancer and percussionist. He performs with renowned Brazilian groups like Ilê Aiyê, Olodum, Muzenza, and Tupi Nago, immersing himself in the vibrant rhythms of Afro-Brazilian music. Giba continues to bring his passion to global audiences, performing with the iconic band Kaoma and other European groups, sharing the essence of Brazilian culture worldwide.
Currently based in Paris, where he relocated in 1997, Giba leads Tambourlode, a celebrated drumming ensemble, and drives Batala as its founder and creative force. With a powerful ensemble of over 80 percussionists, Batala thrives under Giba’s direction, playing his original samba-reggae compositions. Today, his vision propels Batala to global heights, connecting nearly 47 bands and over 1,500 drummers in a shared rhythm and cultural celebration.
Meet Lucy
Lucy is a passionate leader within the Batala family, fully immersed in the vibrant rhythms and cultural heritage of samba-reggae. In 2010, she co-founded Batala London with Angus Sutherland and Liam Emerson, bringing the group to life as a thriving, dynamic community of drummers. Her leadership actively shapes Batala London into a cornerstone of the UK samba-reggae scene, where it celebrates diversity, rhythm, and unity.
Meet Pilar
Pilar, from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, is the Lead Band Coordinator and Choreographer for Batala London. A talented Latin dancer and choreographer, Pilar seamlessly combines her expertise in movement with the vibrant rhythms of samba-reggae to create dynamic and captivating performances.
Since joining Batala in 2006, Pilar has been responsible for teaching the official choreography from Batala Mundo to the London band, ensuring the group performs with precision and authenticity in line with the global Batala vision. Beyond her creative leadership, Pilar manages communication with event organisers, playing a key role in bringing Batala London’s energy and rhythm to stages across the city and beyond.