Batucada, jazz combos, music technology students to perform April 29

The Batucada Nossa Senhora ethnic percussion ensemble of Saint Mary’s will present its 17th annual spring concert 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, in Page Theatre. Batucada Nossa Senhora translates to Percussion Ensemble of Our Lady.

The performance, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will consist of music from Brazil, Cuba and Puerto Rico, combining for an enriching multi-cultural experience for all ages. Batucada members include SMU students, many of whom are music majors, as well as community members.

Performers use a variety of unique instruments including the authentic surdo, tamborim, agogó, reco-reco, ganzá and pandeiro from the Samba Baterias of Brazil as well as hand-drums such as conga and bongó from the Cuban tradition. From Africa, they also use gongoque and beaded gourds of many types (most of which are made by members of the group) as well as instruments such as the berimbau and talking drum.

Additionally two SMU jazz workshop combos, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will play some favorite pieces from past performances, and three SMU music technology students will premiere their electronic music pieces.

One of the jazz workshop combos will perform a Latin jazz piece, written by McGuire.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and may be purchased online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center box office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.