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Forró in Leipzig: Brazilian joy of life danced

By Bernhard De LucaUpdated

In a nutshell
  • Forró in Leipzig combines northeastern Brazilian rhythms from accordion, zabumba, and triangle with an open, student-oriented dance scene.
  • The basic step is based on a simple two-step to the side or forward and back, which is easy to learn even without prior knowledge.
  • Fixed dance partners are not necessary, as people rotate continuously at socials and courses in neighborhoods like Plagwitz.
  • In summer, the scene regularly moves outdoors, especially to paved squares and pavilions in Clara-Zetkin-Park.

Part of a larger topic

Brazilian joy of life and dance culture on the Pleiße

If you are looking for Brazilian partner dance in Leipzig, you will quickly end up with Forró. The scene is characterized by a particularly familiar atmosphere, where constant partner switching during socials is a matter of course. Compared to more formal dances, the focus here is on the connection to the music, carried by the accordion, zabumba drum, and the metallic sound of the triangle. Dancing is usually done close to the ground and in sync with the characteristic two-step, which intuitively adapts to the tempo of each song.

Musically, traditional Pé de Serra and modern Forró Universitário dominate, the latter being characterized above all by dynamic turns and flexible hand positions. The local community meets regularly for casual dance evenings in cultural centers in the west of Leipzig, such as Plagwitz and Lindenau, or in sunny weather on open spaces in Clara-Zetkin-Park. You do not need a fixed partner to join in: When you find a dance partner in Leipzig, you will quickly realize that Forró evenings almost always begin with an open crash course where all participants rotate immediately.

If you are looking for a dance course for beginners in Leipzig, this style offers an extremely accessible entry point. There are no stiff dress codes or strict examination figures. Comfortable sneakers with flat soles are perfectly sufficient to internalize the syncopated step pattern and experience the vibrant culture of the Brazilian Northeast in the middle of Saxony.

Flat shoes with a slightly slippery sole make the quick weight shifts in Forró easier on different dance floors in Leipzig.
Flat shoes with a slightly slippery sole make the quick weight shifts in Forró easier on different dance floors in Leipzig.

Forró, straight to the point

Instruments form the traditional trio
3
steps are included in the basic side rhythm
2
A quarter-time signature usually defines the music
2/4

Four steps to your first Forró dance

  1. Hearing the rhythm in the beat

    When listening to music, focus on the deep beat of the Zabumba bass drum and the bright ticking of the triangle. Clap along to the rhythm to internalize the typical syncopated feeling before taking your first step.

  2. Practice the basic side step

    Move sideways in a rhythm of step, close, step with slightly bent knees. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet so that the changes in direction remain fluid and springy.

  3. Establishing body contact

    Adopt a close position where the leader's right hand rests on the shoulder blade and the upper bodies maintain gentle contact. Leading is done through the rib cage, not by applying pressure with the arms.

  4. Switching partners during social dance

    Attend an open trial class before a social dance in Leipzig and dance with different partners. Repeatedly adjusting to unfamiliar movements will enormously accelerate your sense of rhythm.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Normal everyday clothing is ideal. Forró is a movement-intensive, close-contact partner dance, which is why breathable t-shirts or shirts as well as flat shoes with smooth, gliding soles are the best choice.

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