Xande Cruz presents Batukis a percussion based ensemble performing unique grooves based on traditional Brazilian rhythms of samba, bai“o, frevo, samba reggae, ijex·, coco, maracatu, etc. As a percussionist, he performed with samba schools, in the US, Japan and South Korea. Also, he has performed for Prince Andrew of Great Britain, with Trey Anastasio of Phish at Radio City Music Hall, with various Brazilian pop bands in the US and Brazil, African and Caribbean drum ensembles. He also holds workshops and is involved in childrenís programs. It was while living in New York that he formed the percussion ensemble, Batukis, which has continued promoting Afro-Brazilian roots music in his unique style. The group incorporates a variety beats from Rio, Bahia, and the Northeast of Brazil. Depending on the venue, the ensemble includes from 3 to 10 percussionists and also features samba and afro-brazilian dancers and capoeiristas. Batukis gives an authentically modern interpretation of Afro-Brazilian traditions covering many regions and styles, from the beats to the dancers, from the players to the costumes. Batukis unveils the Brazilian mystique in a powerful and captivating performance! Batukis Performances 2003 - Puerto Rican Festival, Pennís Landing, Philadelphia Music of the World, Madison, NJ Montessori School International Culture Festival, Philadelphia Culture Day, YMCA, Somerville, NJ Peirce College 2002 - Philadelphia Education Fund Temple University The Holiday Parade, Philadelphia The Rotunda, University of Pennsylvania Puerto Rican Festival, Pennís Landing 1616 Locust, Philadelphia 2000-2001 - City of Rio de Janeiro events, contracted for cultural performance series Various club and museum performances in NY, Miami, Philadelphia and Rio de Janeiro Reviews ìAn exciting eclectic Brazilian ensemble that fuses traditional Brazilian rhythms with modern soul popping energy that gets the crowd chanting to the sounds of Brazil. The bandís leader Xande Cruz is an amazingly talented all-around musician who brings into Batukis his impeccable Brazilian musicality.î - Rubi Pacheco-Rivera, Organizer (Pennís Landing Puerto Rican Fiesta, El Concilio) Percussion Lessons and Workshops In addition to performance, Xande Cruz instructs adults and children in percussion and holds workshops for beginner through advanced percussion skill sets. --Adult workshops are held for all skill levels on: Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30pm at El Concilio located at 7th and Fairmount Street in Philadelphia --All other lessons and workshops can be scheduled via email at xande@xandecruz.com and by calling 215.990.2081.