The Ilê Aiyê, founded in 1974, is the first and most important Bloco Afro of Bahia. Its name means "house of the black" and its objective is to preserve and expand African-Brazilian culture. Ilê has toured Europe, the Caribbean and the US, playing and teaching Bahian percussion and dance. Ilê publishes educational materials for children and adults alike, with the support of UNICEF and Fundação Odebrecht of Salvador.
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Ilê rehearsal at Pelourinho, Salvador, with lead singer Graça. |