Samba schools in Salvador are reviving their cultural tradition in the face of a historical decline since the 1980s, with notable performances during Carnival.
In the streets of Itapuã, Salvador, the vibrant sounds of tamborins, repiques, and agogôs signal the presence of Carnival. The samba school Unidos de Itapuã, with around one hundred members, proudly parades through the main streets of the neighborhood, showcasing various groups including the baianas, the malandros, and children, supported by a skilled percussion section. This local school exemplifies a rich tradition that has persisted throughout the years in the city's peripheral neighborhoods.
Historically, the samba schools enjoyed a peak during the 1960s and 1970s but faced a significant decline starting in the 1980s. Since the 2000s, new samba schools such as Unidos de Itapuã, Filhos da Feira de São Joaquim, and Diamante Negro have emerged, regularly participating in Carnival celebrations as well as other popular events, such as the Lavagem de Itapuã. These schools draw inspiration from the legendary samba schools that shaped the cultural landscape of Salvador.
As this tradition resurfaces, many within the community recognize the vital role samba plays in the city's identity. A representative noted that understanding the grandeur and history of samba schools helps highlight their significance in Salvador, emphasizing the enduring cultural heritage that continues to influence the Carnival festivities and the music scene in the region.
