Foleada is a group of seasoned musicians based out of Seattle that play Forró (“foh-hoh”),  dance music from the Northeast region of Brazil. Forró draws on many musical styles, but two of the primary influences are Afro-Brazilian rhythms like samba and baião, and European melodies such as schottisches and polkas. A traditional Forró ensemble features accordion, triangle, and drums. Foleada is a sextet featuring two accordionists: Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues, two percussionists: Jeff Busch and Sam Esecson, Michael Catts on bass, and Brazilian vocalist Adriana Giordano. All our members are active in the Seattle music scene and are veteran performers.
Foleada pays homage to Forró’s Northeastern Brazilian historical roots to transport their audiences to the vibrant streets of Brazil while also adding their own Pacific Northwest flavor. 

As recipients of the 2023 Jack Straw Studios Artist Support Program, Foleada is currently producing their first full-length album, including 4 originals and 4 classics from the traditional repertoire. The album was released in 2024 and is available on apple music, Spotify, and bandcamp.
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Foleada partners with @ForroinSeattle to host regular dance workshops and events for the Brazilian and Forró community. The traditional dance borrows from Cuban salsa and samba to create a simple partner dance. Our largest cultural event, Festa Junina, draws 400+ people.

Whether you're a seasoned Forró enthusiast or a newcomer to Brazilian rhythms, Foleada invites you to join them on a musical journey filled with infectious beats and sounds of Northeastern Brazil. Their music is a celebration of joy, community, and the vibrant spirit of Brazil that transcends borders.