FORRÓ
NEW
YORK
FORRÓ - BRAZILIAN PARTNER DANCE IN NEW YORK & BEYOND
Join group classes, private lessons, and events in New York City, explore workshops in other cities, or learn from anywhere through our online courses.
ABOUT FORRÓ NEW YORK
Forró New York is a forró project based in New York City, founded in 2017.
It is a community-driven initiative that builds and sustains the local forró scene in NYC through weekly dance classes, social dance events, and cultural programming.
Over the years, the project has expanded beyond New York, developing online courses and educational programs that connect and support students internationally.
Today, Forró New York operates across in-person classes, events, and online learning, forming a continuous ecosystem for learning, dancing, and experiencing forró.
PRIVATE FORRÓ LESSONS
Learn at your own pace with personalized instruction for individuals, couples, and small groups. Start from the basics or focus on technique, connection, musicality, and confidence.
Lessons are available at our home studio near Exchange Place PATH in Jersey City, with easy access from Manhattan, or at other locations by arrangement.
LEARN FORRÓ ONLINE FROM ANYWHERE
Start with our Beginners Course, develop your musicality, or explore the complete library with Full Access Membership.
Our recorded courses in English combine step-by-step instruction, guided solo practice, and partner-dance examples. Learn at your own pace and bring what you practice into your local classes, festivals, and social dancing.
FORRÓ IN NYC
In New York, there is a growing forró scene with multiple initiatives, classes, and social events.
Forró New York organizes weekly classes, social dance events, and festivals that connect this community and create a consistent space for learning and practice.
The structure is designed for beginners and experienced dancers, combining guided learning in classes with real social dance practice in events.
Explore more in detail:
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Forró Scene in New York
Structured overview of how the scene is organized today
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Blog: Understanding Forró in New York City - Context and Evolution
Historical perspective and cultural development of the scene
HOW TO START
How to start dancing forró in New York
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Join a beginner-friendly weekly class or book a private lesson
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Learn basic steps, rhythm, and partner connection
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Attend social dance events to practice
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Continue developing through consistent participation
Read the blog: How to Start Dancing Forró in New York City
A beginner’s guide to classes, community, and where to begin
*No partner or previous experience is required.
FORRÓ BEYOND NEW YORK
Beyond his work in New York City, Rafael collaborates with local communities on workshops and artistic, cultural, and educational projects across Brazil, other cities in the United States and Canada, and Europe.
Explore these collaborations through stories, videos, and learning resources from each destination.
STUDENT EXPERIENCES
→ Read more student experiences
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“The classes are fun, welcoming, and such a great way to meet people in NYC.”
Luíza Ribeiro
"His approach to music and rhythm completely changed the way I dance."
Lívia Silva
“I didn’t have any dance experience before, but after a couple of months I already felt comfortable joining the intermediate class.”
Molly Chicy
For dancers who plan to participate regularly, the Forró New York Association offers a way to stay engaged while making ongoing participation more accessible.
WHAT IS FORRÓ?
Forró is a Brazilian cultural movement that includes music, dance, and social gatherings known as forró events. It originated in the Northeast of Brazil and is now practiced throughout the country and in communities worldwide.
The music includes genres such as baião, xote, and arrasta-pé, and the dance developed as a social partner practice centered on connection, musicality, and improvisation between dancers.
Read our blog to learn more about forró: What is forró? Understanding dance, music, and culture
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is forró dance?
Forró is a Brazilian partner dance from the Northeast of Brazil, danced to rhythms such as baião, xote, and arrasta-pé. It is a social dance focused on connection, musicality, and improvisation between partners.
Where can I learn and dance forró in New York?
You can learn forró in New York through weekly classes and social events organized by Forró New York. These classes are designed for all levels, including complete beginners.
Where are Forró New York classes and events held?
Forró New York doesn't have a single permanent studio. Our classes, workshops, and events take place at different locations throughout New York City, including The Clemente Cultural Center, Playwright Studios, Gibney, and Ripley-Grier Studios. During warmer months, we also organize outdoor activities in parks such as City Hall Park, Central Park, and Washington Square Park.
Locations vary by event and season. Check our Weekly Forró Classes page, newsletter, or WhatsApp community for the latest schedules and confirmed locations.
Do I need a partner to join the classes?
No. You do not need a partner to join. Classes and events are structured so participants rotate partners, making it easy to join on your own.
Is forró beginner-friendly?
Yes. Forró is very beginner-friendly. Many classes are designed to introduce the basic steps, rhythm, and connection in a clear and accessible way, even for those with no prior dance experience.
Can I learn forró online if I don’t live in New York?
Yes. Our recorded online classes in English are available worldwide. Start with the Beginners Course, focus on Musicality, or explore all courses through Full Access Membership. Much of the training can be practiced without a partner, helping you develop skills to use in your local dance community.
Do you offer private forró lessons?
Yes. We offer personalized private lessons for individuals, couples, and small groups, from complete beginners to experienced dancers. Lessons take place at our home studio near Exchange Place PATH in Jersey City, or at other locations in NYC and the surrounding area by arrangement.
Visit our Private Lessons page for pricing and scheduling requests.
