What is a surdo?
The surdo is a large cylindrical bass drum used in Brazilian music, mostly in samba and other Afro-Brazilian rhythms such as Samba-reggae/Axé. It is worn around the waist or strung from the shoulders as surdo bands march through the streets during festivals and carnivals.
What does a surdo drum look like?
The cylindrical surdo drum varies in diameter from 40cm to 73cm. In Rio de Janeiro, the capital of Brazil, they are typically 60cm deep, however, in other parts of Brazil they can be as shallow as 50cm.
Generally, the outside of the surdo is made from wood, fibreglass or aluminium whereas the head is made from a thick and durable material such as goatskin or plastic.
Samba drumming workshops
Grooving with a samba group can be a fun and enriching experience, even if you’ve never picked a drum in your life.
At Unbeatable Energy, we’ve shared our love for samba with communities, schools and businesses from across the UK for almost two decades!
Get in touch today by clicking the button below to learn more about our nationwide samba drumming classes.
What does the surdo drum sound like?
The sound of the surdo is characterized by a deep and powerful low-frequency tone, which provides the rhythmic foundation for samba. The drummer can play a variety of patterns and rhythms on the surdo, using different techniques with the mallet or beater to produce a range of energising sounds, from short and staccato to long and sustained.
It is really satisfying to play. Each vibrational beat resonates through your body.
Check out our video below of Steve Rivers leading an energised group of students at a school workshop!
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