Year in Review | Batala London

Members of Batala London in group photo taken by a photographer from Notting Hill Carnival.

Year in Review: 2026

A year of rhythm, movement and unforgettable moments.

2026 brought new rhythms, new members and unforgettable stages — from Salvador Carnival to community festivals, rehearsals, filming and summer shows. It was a year shaped by fresh music, international experiences and the strength of our London community. Here’s a look back at the moments that defined our year.

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Performances

Across London and beyond

Festivals

From community to city-wide

New Drummers

Welcoming the 2026 cohort

~27000

Miles Travelled

Taking Batala Rhythm across the World

Workshops

Sharing skills and building confidence

~18000

Audience Reached

People who felt the Batala energy

Member Firsts

Three Batala members in a group photo, sat on the site of a street in Salvador, Brazil.

Salvador Carnival, Brazil

Where Batala’s heartbeat begins.

Valeria, Andy and Anna Julia travelled to Salvador for Batala’s most important annual gathering — rehearsing and parading with Cortejo Afro and players from around the world. A deep dive into the roots of Samba Reggae and the culture that shaped our sound.

Batala Creta — 10th Anniversary

Celebrating a decade of rhythm in Greece.

Four Batala London members travelled to Crete to join the Batala Mundo workshop, parade and anniversary celebrations — a weekend of music, connection and shared energy with our global Batala family.

Group photo of Batala London members with Vienna's Musical Director.

Guest Music Directors

Fresh ideas from Paris and Vienna.

Two international guest directors, Bastien and Lorenzo brought new calls, new techniques and fresh musical direction. A chance for members to learn from experienced leaders across the Batala family.

Photo of Batala London Rehearsal. Rows of drummers drumming and mog to the rhythm.

Notting Hill Carnival: 60 Years Filming

Captured for a historic celebration.

A photographer and content creator joined rehearsal to film for Notting Hill Carnival’s 60th anniversary. Beautiful behind‑the‑scenes moments — later edited into a piece featuring Pilar.

Syon Park Foodies Festival

A colourful, high‑energy summer show.

We were invited to perform at the Foodies Festival in Syon Park — a fantastic crowd, vibrant atmosphere and a strong opportunity for future bookings.

Kensington & Chelsea Fringe Festival

Closing the festival with rhythm and colour.

Batala London was invited to end the Saturday programme at this family arts festival — a joyful set and a warm community audience.

Rhythms of Resistance

We launched a Virtual Exhibition to honour and share the origins of the music we play and the people who shaped it.

Step Inside

Carnival Moments

Batala London Drummer

Light refreshment before we beginBatala London Drummer

Group photo of Batala London

Batala London Drummer

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Community Events

Batala London at the London Winter Run 2025

Batala London Performance at Saracens

Batala London at the London Winter Run 2025

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Behind the Scenes

Drummer Taster Session with returning caller, Alex

Batala London at group practice session with MD, Lorenzo

Batala rehearsal. Photo by Nori Burhan for Notting Hill Ca

Drummer Taster Session with returning caller, Alex

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To our newest drummers

Welcome. Your journey with Batala London has begun and we’re thrilled you’re with us.

London Calling!

This year, three of our members began their journey to become callers, developing the skills and confidence to lead the band. Through rehearsals and performances, they're learning what it takes to guide Batala London and keep our rhythms moving forward.

Batala London transformed our event — the energy, professionalism and crowd connection were unforgettable.

Event Planner

Looking Ahead to 2027

We’re excited for the year ahead — new rhythms, new faces and fresh opportunities to bring Batala London’s energy to more streets, stages and communities; thank you for being part of our journey.

Explore more

A caller leading Batala Mundo at Notting Hill Carnival

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