"Our job is to get people moving"

The Brazilian Carnival embodies pure joie de vivre. This tradition has also been celebrated at Moods for several years, complete with all the usual trappings. But what makes it so fascinating? We asked the leaders of the Zurich percussion group Borumbaia.

The Tropikados Carnival, organised by Adalu, has been a fixture in the Moods programme for five years. Tickets for it always sell like hot cakes. This year, the colourful festival has sold out again. But why? What makes it so fascinating?Anna and Gloria are two people who know this. They lead the Zurich percussion collective Borumbaia, which opens the carnival in the Schiffbau foyer with the 'Bloco de Rua', alongside other percussion groups from Zurich. Both have been involved since the first edition and remain enthusiastic: 'It's an honour to be part of a carnival that connects so many people through rhythm every year. No matter how many times we experience it, it remains pure joy.' They both emphasise that the power of the event is particularly fascinating. This is especially evident during the Bloco de Rua, when all the drum groups merge into one: 'There is something powerful about this moment, an energy that is transferred to the audience and creates a shared pulse.'And the heartbeat, as they call it, is central. After all, the percussion groups are at the heart of the carnival. They set the rhythm, lead the parade, and bring the dancers, audience, and atmosphere together. As Anna and Gloria put it simply: "Our job is to get people moving."Many people seem to enjoy this task. Since its foundation almost ten years ago, Borumbaia has grown to become one of the largest percussion groups in Switzerland. It started with just twelve members, but now has almost seventy. The reasons for this consistent growth are manifold, as they both emphasise. "We've grown so big because it's not just about making music. It's just nice to be part of this community." This atmosphere naturally attracts new members. The fact that the group is led by women also makes a difference. "Many feel represented and inspired, which encourages them to join us."Furthermore, you don't need to be a professional to participate. The group is as colourful as the carnival itself, consisting of people from different countries, age groups, and backgrounds. Everyone is welcome because they are united by their shared passion for music and community.This sense of community is evident not only at the performances, which are spread throughout the year, but also during rehearsals. Once a week, the members practise in three groups of different levels and learn new rhythms, but above all they share wonderful moments together. This strengthens both musical cohesion and social ties, ensuring that everyone looks forward to rehearsal day.Anticipation for the Tropikaros Carnival is even greater, and not just because of the music and special atmosphere. "The carnival brings warmth to the cold Zurich winter, both musically and personally," say Anna and Gloria in unison. They add: "This combination of energy, community, and joie de vivre is unique."