Folks of Fogo: Maya
Drum: Dobra/Surdo
Pronouns: She/Her
Borough/City: Brooklyn
How long have you been a member of Fogo?
Since May 2023
When is the first time you heard or saw Fogo Azul?
I don't remember 🫣
Why did you decide to join Fogo Azul? What was the catalyst?
My dear friend Cristina Torchio had joined the band and spent almost a year telling me how much I'd love it before I finally stopped making excuses and joined. I grew up playing drums, taking lessons age 11-18, and playing in rock bands throughout high school and a bit in college. Since I had to leave my drum kit in California when I moved to NYC I struggled to find a way to keep up my drumming practice. After years of being a "lapsed drummer" I realized that Fogo was the perfect solution. I could play drums again, have a badass community to play with, and also approach the medium in a new and exciting way! I always loved the rare occasion of drumming with another drummer, so learning the Brazilian style has been incredibly enriching. (And I only have to store one drum instead of a whole kit! Much more NYC friendly! 😜)
Did you have drumming or musical experience before joining Fogo? If so, what?
I grew up in a family of musicians (on stringed instruments), and my parents would regularly host Friday night jam sessions with a rotating cast of musician friends. One night the drummer was too tired to disassemble his kit, so it was there for me to play around with the next morning. My dad showed me a simple rock beat and I was hooked. A couple months later I was gifted my first drum kit for my 11th birthday. The rest is history.
As a drummer/musician, what do you enjoy about being in this drumline?
Everything! But no, really. I enjoy the power of the music we play, the force of the sound of 100+ drums together. I enjoy how active it is, stepping, marching, doing choreography all in sync with music. I think it's the most stimulating sort of work out. And I really enjoy the incredible community of drummers Fogo has brought together. Most of all, it's just fun!
Outside of drumming, what you do enjoy about being a part of this community?
The community of Fogo Azul is so special because you get to come together with people from all sorts of walks of life that you probably wouldn't have met otherwise. Music is the best connector, and I know I've made some lifelong friends here already.
What do you enjoy most about the drum you play?
I love the surdo because it is the backbone of the music we play. It holds it down, and there is nothing that compares to the deep, loud, BOOM of that bass drum.
I love the dobra because of the syncopation and because it combines my love of drumming and dancing.
What attracted you to drumming?
For me I think the attraction was visceral, drumming is both meditative and empowering. Drumming has been the positive force that has gotten me through many of my toughest times.
What are your top 2-3 favorite Fogo performances you’ve played in?
The Halloween Parade, Spike Lee's Prince/MJ Block Party, and Mermaid Parade
What has been the most interesting place you’ve been to because of Fogo?
Going to Brazil takes the cake for most interesting place Fogo has brought me. Nothing compares to playing music in the place it originated, with top Mestres, drummers from all over the world, all with a view over the ocean.
What -if anything, surprises you about your experience in playing with Fogo?
How now I can't imagine living in NYC without being a part of this crew!
How has drumming with Fogo Azul benefitted you or enhanced your life?
Drumming with Fogo Azul has brought the joy of music and performance back into my life. It has also introduced me to some of my favorite people that now I can't imagine my life without.
What do your friends and/or family think or say about you drumming with Fogo?
Everyone is so supportive and excited that I'm drumming with Fogo Azul.
What have you learned about yourself being in this drumline?
I'm stronger than I think I am. And I'm at my best when learning new things.
What other hobbies or creative outlets do you have in your life?
I'm a photographer and artist, so much of my life is in the creative world. I take photos, make collages, create books, installations, etc. I also love to cook and get creative in the kitchen (many friends call me the salad queen 😅).
What would you tell someone who is thinking of joining? Why should they join?
Just come try it out. Everyone is so kind and welcoming, and there is no prior experience necessary! It's a great way to find community, and a great way to explore New York City.
