Ginga Arts provides free Capoeira classes to a diverse group of low-income students through our work at local schools and community centers in Los Angeles. Students are exposed to an art form rich in dance, movement, music and Afro-Brazilian culture. In addition to the movements of Capoeira, children also learn songs in Portuguese and learn how to play instruments used in Capoeira, including the atabaque (drum), pandeiro (tambourine), and berimbau (1-string percussion instrument). Students also learn maculele, a ritual stick-fight dance that is often studied by Capoeiristas. Students’ achievements are recognized at an end of year graduation ceremony where they receive belts marking their progress. Capoeira classes are taught by master Capoeira instructors from Brazil.