The percussion band (bateria) and vocalist (puxador) have a big challenge to face when they walk into the Sambodrome. Getting as many as 6,000 people to sing and dance in synch is not an easy task. Everything is done live. The vocalists usually go on top of a sound car, that may be at the end of the school or next to the bateria. The drummer's niche is located between Sectors 9 and 11. This is where the band stays until the last wing and float passes by, and only then they leave the samba runway.

While an average member of a samba school marches for about 20 minutes, bands and vocalists have to perform for 70 minutes non-stop! Right in front of them you will find the queen of bateria. They look georgeus as they introduce the band, and greet the audience. It's good manners to stand up and cheer.