More than 15 samba bands across the globe, including one in Winchester, are teamed up for a mental health initiative on World Mental Health Day.

The project, named 'Drum for Health', aims to use the power of drumming and movement to support and enhance mental and physical health.

The participating samba bands including Swan Samba from Winchester and others across the UK, US, Spain, New Zealand, Canada, led a variety of workshops and performances on Thursday, October 10.

These bands united to learn and perform a song both in-person and virtually, creating a global community of rhythm and movement enthusiasts.

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Founder of Swan Samba and Drum for Health Gary Munday said: "Time and again we see how our drummers of all ages and abilities come out of drum sessions positive, recharged and happy and want to share this positive experience with other.

"The fact that over 15 other samba bands and artists are involved highlights how our music brings people together and forms a sense of community."

The highlight of the day was the release of a music video showcasing the song performed by all the bands, which is expected to create a positive ripple effect on mental health.

The initiative doesn't stop at World Mental Health Day. Key dates and activities are lined up for Halloween/Day of the Dead and International Students Day on Friday, November 15.

Drum for Health provides a global platform for samba bands and artists to share the joy of being part of a samba community.

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The effort is a direct response to feedback from previous workshops and performances, aiming to spread the benefits of samba band participation on a larger scale.

The project has also developed easy to understand and accessible resources to engage the public at home and in the workplace, promoting wellbeing in households and communities.

These resources will be distributed through workshop and performance contacts and free online workshops.

The aim is to enhance the overall wellbeing of local communities through the universal language of music and movement.

The initiative includes two shows and immersive workshops by Swan Samba at The Arc, Jewry St, Winchester, on Saturday, October 26.