Case Study: SParky Samba

Introduction

The vision of Sparky Samba was developed by Parkinson’s UK Cymru (Cardiff branch) and Barracwda Samba. SParky Samba uses percussion to boost physical and mental wellbeing for those with Parkinson’s. Following a successful Cardiff pilot, an Arts Council Wales grant enabled expansion into Fishguard and Llandudno. By partnering with experts—including Samba Doc, Colin Daimond, and Bloco Sŵn—we transitioned from taster sessions to sustainable weekly workshops. This model ensures high quality instruction and community connection. The feedback from new hubs mirrors the Cardiff success. Participants report significant improvements in mood and mobility, alongside a renewed enthusiasm for community activity and long-term wellbeing.

The Challenge

Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition, for which there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s. There are over 40 symptoms of Parkinson’s. How Parkinson’s affects someone can change from day to day, and even from hour to hour. Symptoms that may be noticeable one day may not be a problem the next. There are both motor and non-motor symptoms. Guidance for people with Parkinson’s emphasises the importance of remaining active physically, mentally and socially. However as apathy and poor motivation are both symptoms, it can be hard for individuals to galvanise themselves to take part in any activities. The opportunity to join a samba band has proven to be hugely inspirational, and a springboard to reengaging with day to day activities as well as taking up other new activities.

The Approach

The SParky Samba project delivered 163 weekly samba drumming workshops between April 2024 and November 2025, engaging 68 unique participants (people with Parkinson’s and supporters) to counter apathy and low motivation through music, energy, and social connection. Delivered by experienced musicians and volunteer leads (including two people with Parkinson’s), three regular 90-minute groups were established in Cardiff, Fishguard, and Llandudno, following taster sessions in eight towns across Wales. Workshops generated 2,129 attendances. 37 artist training sessions, adapted with digital support (shorter Zoom sessions) for accessibility, were also delivered. The total budget was £52,306. Scaling and sustainability were achieved by recruiting artists through existing networks, providing specialist training and peer support, and collaborating with local groups where volunteer leads and people with Parkinson’s played a central role.

The Impact

Evaluation & Impact

Impact was evaluated through an independent external assessment using baseline and endline surveys and focus groups across all three hubs. In parallel, Cardiff University is working with Sparky Samba participants to examine effects on freezing of gait, motivation, and physical activity. While quantitative analysis is ongoing, the team has completed ethnographic fieldwork to define the intervention, with abstracts submitted to the World Parkinson’s Congress.

Methodology & Findings

Survey response rates were lower than anticipated (12 baseline, 9 endline). To address this limitation, we extrapolated consistent positive responses across the full cohort (38 people with Parkinson’s and 26 affected/carers) to model overall impact. Findings confirm that Sparky Samba delivers meaningful physical, emotional, and social benefits, fostering community and joy.

Quality of life: 90% of participants with Parkinson’s (approx. 34 people) and 100% of carers/supporters reported improved quality of life or wellbeing.

Physical activity: 44% of people with Parkinson’s (approx. 17 people) reported increased activity levels.

Symptoms: 78% (approx. 30 people with Parkinsons) reported reduced freezing of gait or related symptoms.

Participants reflected: “It is difficult to be anything but feel upbeat” and “It has helped my mood and confidence.”

An unintended but valuable outcome was the development of a strong professional network among samba leaders, enabling the sharing of best practice.

Lessons Learned

To maximise access across Wales, we prioritised geographic reach over concentrating delivery in densely populated areas. This led to new groups in Llandudno (11 participants) and Pembrokeshire (18), alongside the established Cardiff group (39). Although smaller, participants reported high enjoyment and significant benefit, confirming wider reach was a worthwhile, equitable trade-off. A key operational challenge was the absence of a single, dedicated project manager. Despite strong commitment from partners and volunteers, unclear line management sometimes reduced efficiency. A key lesson is that appointing an overall project manager is essential for effective coordination, clarity, and consistency.

The Legacy

All three bands are expected to continue. Cardiff is exploring financial sustainability, while Llandudno and Fishguard seek future funding. Six individuals are forming a CIC to promote drumming for PwP. The project continues for six months via research funding, with Cardiff now self-funding. Cardiff’s performance piece educating audiences on Parkinson’s and rhythm was well-received , leading to plans for theater performances and filming.

Website and Social Media Links

https://www.bbc.co.uk/cymrufyw/erthyglau/ckgz4nv7e4lo https://localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/activity/sparky-samba https://www.sambadoc.org.uk/ https://colindaimond.co.uk/blocoswn/ https://www.facebook.com/barracwda/ https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1879310772542351 https://www.youtube.com/@SParkySamba

Contact Details

Dawn McGuinness - dmcguinness@parkinsons.org.uk Eirwen Malin - sparky.samba@gmail.com

Tags: #samba #drumming #percussion #music #longtermhealthcondition #parkinsons #olderpeople #exercise #isolation #wales #cardiff #llandudno #pembrokeshire #neuroplasticity #movement disorder

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