My name is Melvin Oliver, I'm 15 years old and have been a L.A. Samba kid drummer since six grade and I was 11 yrs old. I was a boy that nobody knew my name, except the boy that does back flips. L.A. Samba Kids helped me learn drumming which was a way of dealing with my anger, and how to be a gentleman in the world. The past four years I've learn about the Brazilian culture and have learn a little bit of Portuguese. I'm now one of the youth leaders teaching the new Samba kids of Muir middle school. Youth Leadership at first was hard with finding my way to co teach other kids, but now is a blessing. I like teaching kids because it makes me feel good knowing I'm able to help others the way Mr. Sidney was able to help me. I recommend this program to kids who are wanting to learn drumming and a different culture that is really cool.