Folks of Fogo: Diana
Drum: Surdo, Timbal
Pronouns: She/Her
Borough/City: Manhattan
How long have you been a member of Fogo?
Since March 2023
When is the first time you heard or saw Fogo Azul?
Dyke March 2021 - I happened to be on 5th Avenue when suddenly I heard these drums getting closer and closer. I love Brazilian percussion and lived in Brazil for 9 months so hearing Fogo really took me back and made me so happy. I immediately found Fogo Azul on all the social media platforms and followed for two years before joining.
Why did you decide to join Fogo Azul? What was the catalyst?
Honestly after two years of knowing Fogo existed I just said f*ck it, I will make time for this because it’s something I want to do for myself. Best decision ever.
Did you have drumming or musical experience before joining Fogo? If so, what?
I’ve always loved music and Brazilian music and percussion specifically. I learned tamborim when I lived in Rio and I grew up performing in musical theater and singing in choirs. I’ve also started to learn ukulele.
As a drummer/musician, what do you enjoy about being in this drumline?
I love that you don’t need to know how to read music. It’s more about feeling the rhythm and learning the songs and breaks until they become a part of you.
Outside of drumming, what you do enjoy about being a part of this community?
As a newer NYC dweller it’s been the best way to get out of the house and go to parts of NY and attend events I never would have gone to otherwise. Also the sense of community is really amazing. Fogo is full of talented, compassionate, funny, strong and generous people that just makes my life so much better.
What do you enjoy most about the drum you play?
Playing the surdo makes me feel powerful and I love that it’s the heartbeat of the band. It’s also really fun to start learning tricks like lifting! I’m still newish on timbal but I really enjoy the challenge of learning a new hand drumming technique and a totally new layer of the music I’ve already learned on another drum.
What attracted you to drumming?
I’ve just always been drawn to the sounds of percussion but never had real access to doing it until Fogo. Like someone at post-gig drinks said a few weeks ago, Fogo is like a dream come true. And it is…
What are your top 2-3 favorite Fogo performances you’ve played in?
So many! Generally the ones with lots of costumes are super fun like Mermaid Parade, Halloween, etc… but also performances where the crowd lets loose and gets really engaged like the Battle Hill Block Party. It just feels like one big happy party.
What has been the most interesting place you’ve been to because of Fogo?
The Intrepid ship, Coney Island, Bushwick lol I feel like every time there is an event or rehearsal and I come out of the subway into a neighborhood that is new to me, it feels like a discovery.
What -if anything, surprises you about your experience in playing with Fogo?
I’m always amazed to learn what my fellow band mates do outside of Fogo. Everyone has such interesting backgrounds, careers and stories and we all come together to play drums together.
How has drumming with Fogo Azul benefitted you or enhanced your life?
So many ways! I have so many new friends, most of whom are always down to go do something fun outside of the band. It’s the best reason to get off the couch or out from behind the computer and go be active doing something totally exhilarating. Getting to know the city and getting to perform at really fun events.
What do your friends and/or family think or say about you drumming with Fogo?
They’re all really happy for me that I’ve found this incredible group that brings me so much joy. I think they’re a little jealous too haha
What have you learned about yourself being in this drumline?
I’m a pretty good drummer ;-)
What other hobbies or creative outlets do you have in your life?
Hiking, birding, cooking, knitting, learning feng shui and ukulele, plants
What would you tell someone who is thinking of joining? Why should they join?
Definitely try it out! It’s so much more than just drumming.
