About the Organization

What is the Brazilian Center for Cultural Exchange of Sacramento?

The Brazilian Center for Cultural Exchange of Sacramento is a nonprofit arts and cultural organization dedicated to sharing and preserving Brazilian music, dance, and community traditions. We offer classes, workshops, youth programming, and public events that highlight Brazil’s rich Afro-Indigenous roots and contemporary cultural expressions.

What is your mission?

Our mission is to build community through Brazilian arts. We support cultural education, accessible programming, and opportunities for artistic exchange. Through dance, drumming, and cultural events, we create space for people of all backgrounds to learn, connect, and celebrate Brazilian culture.

Is this organization only for Brazilians?

No. The Center welcomes everyone. Our programs are designed for the Sacramento community as a whole, and participation does not require Brazilian heritage or prior experience.

Do I need to speak Portuguese?

No. Classes and programs are taught in English, although you may hear some Portuguese vocabulary used in dance and drumming instruction.

Programs and Classes

What programs do you offer?

We currently offer:

• Samba dance classes

• Brazilian percussion/drumming classes

• Brazilian Portuguese lessons

• Community events and performances with G.R.E.S. Unidos da Capital

Additional programs are added throughout the year.

Do I need prior dance or drumming experience?

No. All levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced students. Our instructors teach in a way that is accessible, encouraging, and grounded in authentic Brazilian technique.

What should I wear or bring to class?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing. Samba can be practiced barefoot or in lightweight dance shoes. Heels are optional. Please bring water and anything else you need to move safely and comfortably.

Are classes open to children?

Youth are welcome in the percussion program. Samba classes are currently designed for adults and older teens unless otherwise noted.

Where are classes held?

Classes and rehearsals are held at Step-1 Dance & Fitness studio in Natomas and at Move Studio on Folsom blvd in Sacramento, CA. Location, parking details, and access information can be found on our Classes page.

How do I sign up for a class?

Registration is available through our website. Visit the Programs page to sign up.

Do classes run year-round?

Yes. Our programming continues throughout the year, with occasional breaks for holidays or special events.

Is photography or recording allowed during class?

Please be mindful when taking photos or video. Recording is permitted only with instructor approval and may not include minors without written consent.

Performances and Bookings

Can I book the Center’s performers for an event?

Yes. Our samba dancers and percussion ensemble, G.R.E.S. Unidos da Capital, are available for performances, workshops, and cultural presentations. To request a booking, please use the contact form on our website or head to the Booking page.

Community, Access, and Participation

How can I support the Center?

You can support the Center by making a donation, attending classes and events, volunteering, or partnering with us on community initiatives. As a nonprofit, we depend on public support to offer accessible cultural programming.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. The Brazilian Center for Cultural Exchange of Sacramento is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Do you offer volunteer opportunities?

Yes. Volunteers assist with events, community outreach, youth programming, and operational support. Please contact us if you are interested in volunteering.

Cultural Questions

What does G.R.E.S. mean?

G.R.E.S. stands for Grêmio Recreativo Escola de Samba — a traditional cultural association in Brazil that brings together dancers, drummers, artisans, and community members to prepare for Carnaval and other celebrations. Our Sacramento branch honors this lineage through performance and education.

What is samba?

Samba is an Afro-Brazilian dance and music tradition with deep roots in the African diasporic communities of Brazil. It is known for its rhythm, footwork, joyful expression, and connection to community and resistance.

What is a bateria?

The bateria is the percussion ensemble of a samba school. It includes instruments such as surdo, caixa, repinique, tamborim, and agogô, working together to create the driving rhythms of samba.

What is Carnaval in Brazil?

Carnaval is Brazil’s largest cultural celebration, featuring parades, music, dance, and community festivities. It is a tradition rooted in Afro-Indigenous culture and is expressed differently across Brazil’s many regions.

Administrative and General Questions

What is your refund policy?

Refund policies vary by class or event. Please refer to the instructor for details.

Is the studio accessible?

We strive to ensure access for participants of all abilities. Please contact us if you have specific mobility or accessibility needs.

Who runs the Center?

The Center is led by its Board of Directors and its founding artists. Leadership information can be found on our “About Us” page.