Community Services

Capoeira Angola Classes

Brazilian Cultural Foundation provides Capoeira Angola classes in local community centers and schools. The classes include instruction in martial arts, dance, music, painting, reading, and writing. BCF offers scholarships to participants who demonstrate a financial need. We believe the art of Capoeira Angola is a positive life-changing art form.

The African-Brazilian art form known as Capoeira Angola is a fusion of martial arts, dance, and music. Through song and movement it tells the story of resistance and comments on present day happenings in contemporary Brazil. It emerged in the eighteenth century, and was practiced by enslaved and freed Africans, as well as European immigrants. It can be viewed as an art of survival. Today, Capoeira Angola is practiced throughout the world.

The practice of Capoeira Angola offers many physical and mental health benefits. Practitioners of this art increase their flexibility, stamina, and strength. They receive a cardiovascular workout through the blend of dance and martial arts movements. There is an increase in self-esteem through the acquisition of skills and participation in the group’s objectives.

The musical component of this art form incorporates both singing and playing of percussion instruments. Our classes in music are taught in Portuguese, providing the opportunity to participate in cultural diversity through the study of the oral traditions of Afro-Brazilian poetry and song.

We also offer instruction in traditional instrument building. By teaching the skills of craftsmanship as well as the philosophy of sustainability we are able to not only preserve, but also spread the folk arts of Capoeira Angola. For example, we “harvest” old tires by removing their steel belts to incorporate into our instruments which reduces waste and consumption. In addition, a number of our instruments are handcrafted by our own members.

Our philosophy is based on the following values: integrity, trust, respect , friendship, dedication, honesty, and cooperative learning. Although Capoeira Angola is in essence a form of martial art, it is also the study of non-violence. We believe that people should seek to be in harmony with other people and the environment. Capoeira Angola is a medium to promote cultural awareness and a sense of community.