top of page
Newsletter background

What is Batala?

Batala Zurich is part of an international samba-reggae movement founded by Giba Goncalves in 1997. Our mission is to bring people together by sharing the vibrant carnival culture of Salvador, Brazil, on the streets of Zurich and beyond. 

Powerful Rhythms. Vibrant Performances. Open Community.

Batala Zurich brings the electrifying sound of samba reggae to the heart of Switzerland.


With pulsating Afro-Brazilian percussion, colourful costumes and unstoppable energy, we turn events, streets and stages into unforgettable celebrations.

Whether you want to experience a powerful live show, book us for your event, or be part of the rhythm yourself, Batala Zurich welcomes you.

IMG_0410_edited.jpg

with Batala Creta 

IMG_0672.jpeg

with Batala Geneva, Batala Creta, Batala Portsmouth

Live Percussion That Moves People

Step into the world of Batala performances.


From dynamic street parades to high-energy stage shows, our music is loud, joyful and deeply rooted in the spirit of Brazilian carnival. Every performance is designed to connect with the audience, inviting people to dance, celebrate and feel the rhythm together.

Our shows are not just heard, they’re felt.

Events We Perform At

Batala Zurich brings energy and colour to a wide range of events, including:

  • Running events

  • Festivals and cultural events

  • Community events and neighborhood festivals

  • Street parades and city celebrations

  • Corporate events and brand activations

  • Private celebrations and weddings

  • Open-air events and public gatherings

 

We adapt our formations and performances to fit each setting, from mobile street parades to powerful stage shows.

6d8010a8-d9e2-4463-8dc5-41d194d45fd2.jpeg
20250705_171055_540187.jpeg

with Batala Geneva, Batala Creta, Batala Portsmouth

More Than a Band 

A Community

Batala Zurich is more than a percussion group.
We are a diverse, community-based collective that believes music is a universal language.

 

Our members come from Switzerland and six other countries, bringing together different cultures, languages and life experiences, united by rhythm.

Through music, we create spaces for connection, inclusion and shared joy in everyday life.

Open, Inclusive and Accessible

You don’t need musical experience to join Batala Zurich.


We provide instruments and performance costumes and our membership fee is among the lowest for activities in Zurich, so that financial situation is never a barrier. What matters most is motivation, commitment and the desire to play together.

If you want to learn, grow and be part of something powerful, there’s a place for you here.

20250706_180451_5B0E34.jpeg

with Batala Geneva, Batala Creta, Batala Portsmouth

85-DSC05023.jpg

Book us!

Looking for a performance that energises your audience and leaves a lasting impression?


Batala Zurich delivers high-impact percussion shows that bring colour, movement and excitement to any event.

Batala_Zurich_Logo-for-black.png

Join us!

Want to be on the inside of the beat?
Join our rehearsals, learn samba reggae percussion and become part of an international movement with a strong local heart.

sign up for a free taster session!

10 March · 24 March

19.30-21.30

Binz, Zürich

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
20251212_104322_497.jpg

OUR SPIRIT

Eu sou Batala, o tambor cantor
Gente de toda raça,
gente de toda cor.

I am Batala, the singing drum.
People of all races, people of all colors
 
Geronimo
(extract from the song "Tambor cantor")

bottom of page