Olayá is a female-led flute and percussion band inspired by Northeastern Brazilian bandas de pifanos (bamboo flutes), with the elemental force of flutes, rich vocal harmonies, driving percussion and bass. Olayá’s music is heavily rhythmic and contagiously fun. They have fresh take on the pifano tradition, with quirky arrangements of traditional tunes plus original compositions.

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United by their passion for Brazilian music and exploring sounds, Olayá formed in 2022. After their sold-out debut gig in May 2023, they were snapped up by bookers and have since headlined at Jaminaround, Basket of Light and Leeds Summer festival, with many more festivals in the pipeline. Their sets contain danceable rootsy Brazilian forró tunes as well as lush contemplative numbers, moving audiences in every way!

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Olayá’s musicians have long been at the forefront of London’s Brazilian music scene. They have played in festivals and venues internationally with a plethora of artists including Gal Costa, Alvorada and Antonio Forcione, and have appeared on BBC Radio 3, Jazz FM, Worldwide FM and the West End stage.

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Follow Olayá on instagram (olaya.band) to find out about our latest gigs.

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Rachel Hayter (flutes, vocals)

Rosanna Ter-Berg (flutes, vocals)

Ines Loubet (vocals, percussionist)

Julio de Castro (bassist, vocals)

Jansen Santana (percussion)

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