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Meet the team

Batala Paris Logo

Giba Goncalves

Batala Mundo Founding Father

Batala was formed in Paris in 1997 by renowned musician Giba Goncalves; a Brazilian percussionist who has played with Ile Aiye, Jimmy Cliff and Banda Kaoma. Giba studied Composition and Bass Guitar at the Paris Conservatoire. 

Giba Goncalves leading at the Notting Hill Carnival
Info

Pilar Rowlands

Band Coordinator / Lead Choreographer

From the vibrant city of Rio De Janeiro, Pilar embarked on her artistic journey as an accomplished Latin dancer and a dedicated teacher/choreographer. With a seamless transition, she channeled her skills into the world of samba-reggae dance and percussion. Since 2006, Pilar has been an integral part of the Batala family, expertly handling all aspects of choreography while also taking the lead as the coordinator for communication with event organisers.

Drummers at the Notting Hill Carnival
Close up of drums

Lucy Petrasso

Band Director

Lucy has been a dedicated member of the Batala family for many years and formed Batala London in 2010 alongside Angus Sutherland and Liam Emerson.

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