Join us on this exciting journey! We’re on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals to become part of our vibrant community. Our mission is to share the joy of Afro-Brazilian music, dance, and culture that we hold dear.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced performer, we offer weekly classes in both samba drums and samba dance. Conveniently located in North Melbourne, our classes/rehearsals are open to new participants once a month. Explore more details and find out how to sign up by visiting our Linktree or reaching out to us directly. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of the rhythm and energy!
Led by two pioneers of Australian Samba, you’re in expert hands as you enjoy your Samba journey. Founder and Mestre de Bateria, Rob Arcari, leads the drum team, while Rainha de Bateria and Dance Director, Denise Kayan, heads up the dance element.
Mestre Rob has been at the forefront of the Melbourne Samba scene for the past decade. As the Mestre de Bateria for both Bloco 3K (Melbourne) and Unidos da Cacatua (the largest samba project in Australia and New Zealand), he brings a wealth of experience and passion. Since 2017, he has made an annual pilgrimage to Rio, parading with numerous Escolas de Samba. A regular ritmista with Imperatriz Leopoldinense and Acadêmicos da Rocinha, he has also paraded with Paraiso da Tuiuti, Império da Tijuca, Estacio de Sá, and many other schools.
Denise Kayan is one of Australia’s most accomplished samba dancers. Locally, she serves as Rainha de Bateria and Dance Coordinator for Bloco 3K, as well as Director of Dance for Unidos da Cacatua. Denise is well-known in Rio, where she has been a passista with Vila Isabel since 2020 and previously with Mocidade from 2017 to 2019. She has held prestigious titles such as Rainha da Escola and Princesa da Bateria at Unidos da Ponte, in addition to various Musa positions at numerous schools. With her extensive experience, Denise is adept at commanding attention and leading with confidence in front of a bateria.
Come and share in our passion! We look forward to having you as a part of it.