Forró is the Brazilian, now very much international, hipswivelling, dance floor-filling, popular music and dance originated in Brazil’s Northeastern states. Some fans of forró say that it is one of the easiest partner dances to master, which would explain why it is so addictive and increasingly popular.
If you appreciate this genre, now you have the opportunity to learn how to dance forró. A new class just opened in New York City. Instructed by Alexandre Porcel, a dancer master from Rio de Janeiro, the classes will cover all styles of forró, from the most traditional, to “Baião”, “xaxado” and “forró universitário”, the most common style in the Southeast.
Forró encompasses not only various dance styles but also a number of different musical beats. The music is based on a combination of three instruments, the accordion, the zabumba (a type of bass drum) and a metal triangle. But there are some bands that use more instruments; but those 3 are most identified with the unique sound of forró.
Famous Brazilian music bands include “Forró Sacana”, “Bicho de Pé”, “Trio Forrozão”, “Falamansa” and “Raiz do Sana”.
Alexandre Porcel is a dancer professional with more than 12 years of teaching experience. He was one of the dancers of Carlinhos de Jesus Dance Company, one of the most well known popular dance schools in Rio. He also participated in the Brazilian version of “Dance with the Stars”, in 2010, when he won, along with Fernanda Souza (photo), a Brazilian actress, the first place of the year’s competition.
He will be in New York City for the next six months conducting classes, workshops and shows with the purpose of promoting this typical Brazilian style in the capital of the world.
The classes will be held at the Champions Studios, located at: 257 W 39th Street (between 7th & 8th Ave.), 14th floor, New York, NY 10018.
For more information, call Alexandre (929) 325-5664.