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SAMBATA Based in Vancouver, Canada, Sambata is a percussion school and musical ensemble that plays a powerful and unique blend of music drawing on the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian popular and folkloric music. Led by Paul Bray, Sambata delivers high energy, inspiring performances in parades, clubs and corporate events throughout the Greater Vancouver area. Since its inception in 2000, Sambata has touched thousands of lives with our brand of innovative arrangements, cross-cultural instrumentation and exuberant spirit.
	Photographs by Greg McKinnon

PAUL BRAY

Paul Bray is a dynamic and charismatic multi-talented percussionist working as a musical educator and performer in Vancouver. Drawing on a strong classical background, Paul has devoted his attention to the study of African influenced music, specializing in Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian folkloric musical styles.

He has studied extensively in Cuba, and has developed a strong command of Brazilian percussion. In Vancouver, he has collaborated with Afro-Bahia Dance Productions and Yasse Afro-Arts in addition to working as a studio musician and directing Sambata, Vancouver’s 20 piece Escola de Samba. In addition, Paul has performed as a guest artist with both Jesse Cook and Tibetan multi-instrumentalist Nawang Kechog.

Currently, Paul is the percussion instructor at the Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach – an Arts Umbrella youth program, and is guest instructor with the Britannia World Rhythms Ensemble. In the performing arena Paul is a member of Tambor Iroko, led by Jack Duncan, Candela, and a regular club percussionist, collaborating with local DJ’s in Vancouver.