The 3rd Surdo ("Surdo de Terceira") is typically the smallest and highest-pitched of the three Surdo bass drums used in the samba school Bateria (drum section). Aside from supporting the main beats on 2 and 4, the 3rd Surdo has the function of playing syncopated patterns that are an integral part of the groove of the Bateria. To varying degrees, the 3rd Surdo player may also play variations that cut the rhythm and complement both the other percussion parts and the melody of the song.

In this course, you will learn what we consider to be the most critical building blocks to begin playing the 3rd Surdo in the context of Rio's samba schools. Aside from how to position and tune the drum, you will learn the basic strokes, foundational techniques, several classic rhythms and variations, how to play with the samba swing, and how to put together an arrangement for a song.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced 3rd Surdo player or teacher, this course has something for learners of all levels and is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Brazilian music and culture. Let's get started and have some fun learning the basics of the 3rd Surdo!