A samba band normally consists of Tamborims , Snare drums (Caixa), Agogo bells, Surdos, Ganzás / Chocalho (shakers), Cuíca, Timbal, Pandeiro, and the Repinique. The band leader often carries a Repinique, as well as using Apitos (whistles) to signal breaks and calls. Other instruments have been added in many samba bands such as frigideira, cavaquinho 4 stringed guitars, 7 stringed guitars and a small brass section (trumpets and trombones). As a general rule in Brazil, a samba band must have a group of a minimum of 8 singers with one lead singer to provide the vocal harmony needed to sing the samba-enredo and other forms of samba music.
