Teaching Drummers how to Dance - Workshop with Denise Kayan & Michel Rhuim

Part of the Melbourne Samba Encontro - unlocking the fundamentals of Brazilian Samba dance for those that usually provide the beats

This samba dance class is made just for samba drummers—because great grooves deserve great moves.

Whether you’re a surdo boss, caixa king, or tamborim queen, this class helps drummers loosen up, move with confidence, and dance the beat you play.

We take it back to basics, for a breakdown of the essence of the samba no pe, focusing on both the male and female styles. Expect fun footwork, samba swing, plenty of laughs, and zero pressure. No dance experience needed—just a love of samba and rhythm.

This samba dance class is specially designed for samba drummers who want to embody the music they play. Go beyond the beat and learn how samba movement connects directly to rhythm, timing, and groove.

Meet your teachers:

Michel Rhuim brings the fire, finesse, and swagger of a true Rio male passista. From Mocidade Independente and Unidos do Padre Miguel to Portela and now Vila Isabel, Michel has lived and breathed samba at the highest level. Awarded Revelação Passista Masculino in 2019 Rio Carnaval, he’s known for powerful samba no pé masculino, smooth samba de gafieira, and that unmistakable malandro charm. Expect precision, groove, and plenty of attitude.

Denise Kayan is elegance, energy, and leadership wrapped into one unstoppable samba queen. From Rainha da Escola and Princesa da Bateria at Unidos da Ponte, to passista roles with Mocidade and Vila Isabel, Denise lights up the avenue wherever she goes. As the current Rainha da Bateria for Bloco 3K Melbourne, she knows exactly how to connect rhythm, movement, and presence—on and off the drums.

Together, Denise and Michel bring authentic Brazilian samba, playful teaching, and infectious energy—helping you feel the beat, move with confidence, and most importantly, have fun.

Play it. Move it. Live the samba.

IMPORTANT INFO

Bring some water, comfortable trainers and comfortable clothes.

As workshop times are strictly 1 hour, they will start ON TIME, so please arrive early to check in.