Meet the team: Faces of the Rhythm
Meet Giba
Giba Gonçalves, born in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, is a dynamic artist who blends his skills as a dancer and percussionist. He has performed 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 share his passion with global audiences, performing with the iconic band Kaoma and other European groups, carrying the essence of Brazilian culture wherever he goes.
Now 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 more than 80 percussionists, Batala thrives under Giba’s direction, playing his original samba‑reggae compositions. Today, his vision connects nearly 47 bands and more than 1,500 drummers around the world in a shared rhythm and cultural celebration.
Meet Lucy
Lucy is a passionate leader within the Batala family, deeply connected to the rhythms and cultural heritage of samba‑reggae. In 2010, she co‑founded Batala London with Angus Sutherland and Liam Emerson, helping shape the group into a thriving community of drummers. Her leadership continues to guide Batala London as 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, she blends her movement expertise with the rhythms of samba‑reggae to create dynamic and captivating performances.
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Since joining Batala in 2006, Pilar has taught 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. Alongside her creative leadership, Pilar manages communication with event organisers, helping bring Batala London’s energy and rhythm to stages across the city and beyond.
If you’d like to be part of our community, visit our Drum with Us page.