Jorge Alabe

JORGE ALABE Renowned Master drummer Jorge Alabe grew up in Rio de Janeiro immersed in the rich musical culture of Brazil, becoming a master in samba percussion as well as in the Afro-Brazilian religious tradition of candomble. He is an "Alabe" connected with the oldest candomble house established in Brazil, Casa Branca; the title of "Alabe" means that he has obtained the highest level in drumming and leading of rituals in the candomble religion and signifies deep experience and authority. Jorge played percussion with the highest level samba groups in Rio. He went on to become percussion director of the internationally known Brazilian performing group Oba Oba in 1980. During 15 years working with Oba Oba, Jorge toured with the group through Europe, Asia, South America, and the United States, including three runs at the Marquis Theater on Broadway in New York. Jorge moved to New Orleans in 1996, where he works closely with Casa Samba directed by Curtis Pierre.