samba school

I’ve been helping school music programs build and expand their samba schools for over 20 years. My focus is on not only sharing the techniques and rhythms but, most importantly, instilling a love and understanding of the culture surrounding the music. I write a new show for each school that I work with. Each show is a unique collection of music of the African diaspora: traditional Rio batucada, Brazilian folkloric styles, swampy New Orleans second line, Afro Cuban styles, West African traditional and Afro Pop, to the grooves of Clyde Stubblefield, Jabo Starks, and Zigaboo Modeliste.

I can also happily facilitate a one-off clinic on a particular technique, rhythm, or style for your school or organization.

I’d love to have the opportunity to share this amazing music with you and your students.

Norm Bergeron has brought a wealth of knowledge about styles, grooves, techniques, and history to the Marcus High School Brazilian Ensemble for the past 20 years. Norm’s passion for this genre of music is infectious and easily picked up by students. Having studied abroad, his knowledge is extremely extensive and accurate. Norm’s outstanding musicianship, his passion for Brazilian music, and his ability to relate to all age levels make him an extraordinary educator, guest clinician, and special guest artist.

Norm is “Muito Fogo”……….

— Kennan Wylie - Director of Percussion Studies - Marcus High School

Norm is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Samba and Latin American music. On top of that he delivers it all in such a fun manner it keeps everyone engaged and wanting more. I feel very fortunate to have Norm working with the McCallum Samba Knights.

— Matt Ehlers - Director of Percussion - McCallum High School