Grêmio Recreativo Escola de Samba União da Ilha do Governador, popularly known as União da Ilha, was founded in the Ilha do Governador neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro. It was founded on March 7, 1953 by Maurício Gazelle, Quincas and Orphylo.
The samba school, despite being very traditional, has not yet been the champion of the Rio de Janeiro’s carnival. It is known for anthological samba songs, such as “É Hoje”, “O Amanhã”, “Festa Profana”, among others.
Bateria
União da Ilha’s bateria nickname is Baterilha. Its caixa section plays with caixas embaixo, playing a syncopated groove. Another striking feature is the presence of a four-mouthed agogôs’ section.
Mestre Paulão, who was bateria director for 16 years, and Mestre Odilon Costa are the most important directors in the history of this bateria. Currently, this bateria is commanded by two bateria directors: Keko Araújo and Marcelo Santos.
Baterilha holds five Estandartes de Ouro, in 1978, 1981, 1985, 1989 and 2017.
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Rehearsals and events
União da Ilha’s bateria rehearsals take place on Wednesdays at 8 pm, in the samba school’s quadra. There are also other rehearsals, feijoadas and other events. Always check the samba school’s official channels (Website, Facebook, Instagram…) to confirm that rehearsals and events are going ahead.
Address (Quadra) – Estrada do Galeao 322, Cacuia, Rio de Janeiro
Check the Unit da Ilha’s events on Facebook and Instagram.
