BLOCO GNV
BLOCO GNV
COME DRUM WITH US!
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A bloco (block) is a Brazilians Portuguese word for a community percussion ensemble with roots in Afro-Brazilian Carnival processions. Similar to Mardi Gras second-line bands, blocos parade in the streets as large drum ensembles that manifest an effervescent fusion of arts and culture. This naturally includes music, dance, costumes, Carnival themes, and activism. To respectfully build upon these Afro-Brazilian roots of rhythmic resistance, we aim to unite the community against hate and racial discrimination through the unity, music, rhythm, and performance of BLOCO GNV!
BLOCO GNV will play a diverse variety of rhythms we respectfully blend from Brazil, the USA, Caribbean, and Africa. The rhythms we will play include Carnival music like samba-reggae and samba-afro from Salvador, Brazil, second-line mardi gras arrangements, African and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and our own rhythmic creations. We aim to underscore the unique and brilliant experience of playing Afro-diasporic rhythms.
No prior music experience necessary but we encourage you to attend weekly rehearsals and be serious about learning your parts!
Please email blocognv@gmail.com for more information and follow us on Instagram @blocognv!
Improve Rhythmic Coordination
Improve Rhythmic Coordination
Participating in BLOCO GNV will help you learn and improve your rhythm by playing a variety of rhythms and breaks--eventually dancing, singing, and playing at the same time!(Photo of first rehearsal at Heartwood Soundstage in August, 2024)
Meet New People
Meet New People
From UF to Brazil to Florida and beyond, you'll meet new peoplethat share your interest and passion for music, the arts, community, activism, and culture. (Photo of first parade at the Gainesville Holiday Parade in December 2024)
Build a Health Community
Build a Health Community
Strongly influenced by ideologies and philosophies of Blocos Afro in Salvador, Brazil, we aim to constructively build community and support positive social causes. We achieve this by playing for free at community events in Gainesville by special request. (Photo from Sept 2025 in Rosa B. Williams)
Rehearsals are Friday nights from 6m-8pm at the Rosa B. Williams Center
Rates have now returned to $10/class or $30/month for those with the means.
Funded by an Art TAG grant through the City of Gainesville and National Endowment for the Arts, we offered free classes in July and August 2025!
We thank the city of Gainesville for their generous support!
Meet Your Instructors
Meet Your Instructors
Kenneth Metzker
Kenneth Metzker
UF Professor, Schools of Theatre, Dance and Music
Professional Percussionist
In addition to playing in Florida, we hope to maintain connections with founding Blocos Afro in Salvador, Brazil and collaborate on projects with Ilê Aiyê, Olodum, Didá, Mulherada, and Tambores do Mundo.
In addition to playing in Florida, we hope to maintain connections with founding Blocos Afro in Salvador, Brazil and collaborate on projects with Ilê Aiyê, Olodum, Didá, Mulherada, and Tambores do Mundo.
To learn more about the this music, the history, and culture, watch the documentary below or visit Cody's website: www.codyleecase.com
To learn more about the this music, the history, and culture, watch the documentary below or visit Cody's website: www.codyleecase.com
Visit the Spotify playlist below to listen to some of the music we'll play!
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