No Music Training? No Problem – Pool Academy Launches Samba Band for Everyone

Pool Academy has launched a brand-new Samba Band – and it all started with a surprise discovery in the school’s store room.

Joey Holmes, a visiting music teacher with experience running Samba bands, will lead the weekly sessions every Wednesday. The group gives students a hands-on opportunity to explore rhythm and percussion, regardless of their musical background.

Drumming Up Excitement

The idea came about after a teacher stumbled across a collection of samba drums. According to Principal Nick Ward:

“One of our teachers stumbled upon a collection of samba drums in our store room, and it struck them that they could be a fantastic way to engage students in music. The beauty of samba is that it’s all about energy, and teamwork – perfect for getting students involved, regardless of their musical background. We hope to see the band perform at the Summer Festival, Christmas shows, and possibly even the Year 6 transition day.”

With no need for complex notation or prior training, the band is open to all students who want to get involved in something energetic, collaborative and fun. The music department says the group is about building confidence and experiencing the joy of performing in front of an audience.

A Rhythm with Roots

Samba music originates from the Afro-Brazilian communities of Rio de Janeiro. Best known for its role in the vibrant Carnival celebrations, samba is lively, rhythmic and deeply rooted in Brazilian culture.

Pool Academy, which is part of the Athena Learning Trust, is committed to developing students’ skills and knowledge through a dynamic and engaging music curriculum. Past student performances have taken place at events like Songfest and The Hall for Cornwall.

Music That Builds More Than Just Skills

The school’s music department is passionate about offering opportunities both in and outside the classroom. Their new Samba Band reflects this ethos, combining teamwork, creativity and performance in one accessible package.

Pool Academy places its core values of aspiration, belonging and respect at the centre of everything it does. Ofsted inspectors noted that pupils “feel safe at school and value the strong pastoral support they receive,” adding that “pupils learn in quiet and calm classrooms, from a well-planned curriculum.”