Our orchestra is the Brazilian Bateria (percussion battery). We play traditional Brazilian rhythms including Rio Samba, Maracatu, Samba Reggae,Baion and Afoxe as well as original percussion compositions and arrangements of music from other traditions. We also have a band "Samba Lumina", featuring the core percussionists of Carnaval Spirit, together with keyboards, electric Digeridoo, Saxophone, Flute and other intruments.

Director Kim Atkinson has been drumming since 1973. Bio. His extensive knowledge of African, Caribbean, and Brazilian drumming has developed from years of study with native masters in these traditions. He has performed with many world-famous musicians and dancers, as well as numerous Northern California bands such as "The Brazilian Beat," "Viva Brazil," "Rhythm Harvest," "Kachimbo," and "ToKenKi." Before forming Carnaval Sprit in the Wine County, Kim was Bateria director of San Francisco's famous "Escola Nova de Samba". He endorses Latin Percussion instruments and has several recordings available. Kim teaches workshops and classes throughout the country and leads drum circles at community events. He has released two instructional videos that have received excellent reviews in such respected publications as Modern Drummer Magazine and the Journal of the Percussive Arts Society.