Esdra “Neném” Ferreira: uma investigação sobre seu estilo de tocar bateria

Abstract

This work presents a study of the performance style of Esdra Expedito Ferreira, or Neném, a drummer of great relevance to the music scene of Minas Gerais. His early musical formation came from samba, candomblé, and jazz themes that he heard at home with his father as a child. Later, in his youth, he was influenced by some American and Brazilian drummers, and by other musicians with whom he played. Analysis of his drumming technique demonstrates how important these influences were to the development of his style. Using bibliographic references (MONSON, CARDOSO, MARANESI, MEYER, RODRIGUES), Chapter 2 presents a study of three keywords used in this work: style, interaction, and transcription. Along with these theoretical foundations, Neném’s performances and style are analyzed using the testimonies of musicians who were part of his trajectory, as well as audios and transcriptions of his playing. Chapter 3 analyzes his first authorial album, “Suite for the Orixãs,” in which his knowledge of candomblé and his Ogã training are clear: evident both in his performances on the drums and in his interactions with the other musicians and with the songs themselves. In Chapter 4 his second authorial album, “Coração Tambor,” is discussed. Here his versatility and ability to adapt to the different compositions and musical formations used in each track are clear. Chapter 5 examines Neném’s performances in samba, in which we perceive his training and background in this genre, as well as a record of his signature playing styles. Chapter 6 looks at his place in the musical scene of Minas Gerais. His relevance is evident by the unanimous respect and admiration expressed by his peers and musical partners, all of whom recognize his technical capacity, rich rhythmic and musical culture, and his dedication and adaptability to the context of each musical project. Striking characteristics of his style can be identified through these analyses, such as his ability to interact and memorize, to interpret the poetry of each song, and his adaptability. Recurrent elements of his drumming style include: constant variations over a basic rhythmic pattern, advanced motor coordination, resourcefulness in the use of the hi-hat with his left foot, and mastery of complex rhythmic issues such as the performance of polyrhythms, cross-rhythms and odd measures.