The balance between the traditional attitude Dillon mentioned and the North American conundrum Jennell expressed interests me.

They're both good points: my Mestre always said that the student must adapt to Capoeira and not the other way around. But in Jennell's defence, she never indicated that she tried to change anything about the class. She simply wanted to get her money's worth, and when the instructor -- who in that case had less experience (i.e. teaching, or less time in Capoeira) -- showed up late, she got a bit of a raw deal that time. Should a student filling in for the instructor still charge the same rate? Since it's ain't gonna change in any group I've even known, sure, let it go, pay for the class; it's hard to be the one teaching.

But the fact that Capoeira classes have become a business in our N. American/Western/first world culture means the teachers need to treat it that way, too. I agree that it's a privilege to learn Capoeira as far as cultural tradition sharing goes, but once it's for sale it's for sale -- not the culture, but the access to learn. Of course all Capoeiristas in their first, third, or sevn hundredth class should have respect for the culture that spawned the art. But does that mean Capoeira teachers get free card to expect total, unquestioned respect and devotion when they themselves don't fulfill their end? I realize this one class example shouldn't speak for the group or class in question: it was one day and one lateness. But if you're new, you don't have moves to work on like the more advanced students to fill in the time, you're going to be a little upset that the deal was uneven yet they still insist on their money.

I'm not sure what my specific POV is here, but I know this: Capoeira classes, samba classes, samba instruments, Brazilian products (like Capoeira pants and other misc Cap. gear), Capoeira/samba/Maculele/etc shows, and all things Brazilian in N America tend to cost a lot. You can say that Mestres need to make a living too, and I agree. But sometimes the markups on products and classes really rubs me the wrong way, esp when I have seen some of the things student's money gets spent on (not always the necessities, nuff said) And as a Capoeirista it's out of the question to complain because then you're suggesting that the Mestre doesn't deserve your respect. So respect ends up meaning not only unquestioning devotion of time but also of money. Yes, when you are a dedicated or advanced student, more is expected of you in terms of giving to the group and to Capoeira -- you have learned and benefited and often have made it to teaching level to some degree -- you are more trusted to represent Capoeira and confidently share your understanding of the culture. Does all that mean that if, say, you don't have the money to attend a big batizado, you should be seen as not caring about Capoeira or your group? I have heard the POV that if you really want Capoeira you have to be hungry and so you will do whatever it takes, get a second job, etc. And yes, Capoeiristas who thirst for knowledge and training usually get ahead quicker. Does that mean a beginner who plunks down their money is a throwaway student, just someone to help pay the bills, until they prove themselves? In most cases I have seen, this is what happens. This is one reason why beginner classes exist.

I guess my question here is this: If Capoeira demands some devotion of time and money, and is therefore in the business of teaching a cultural art form (be it martial, musical, acrobatic, dancelike, all of the above, etc.), does the unique nature and cultural history of Capoeira excuse it from treating its students like "customers" until proven dedicated?

Jennell, I do have to say that most Capoeira classes I have seen do just "throw you into it." You start with the ginga (or some esquivas as part of stretching, etc) and you do whatever the instuctor has you do next, that's what you learn. Not sure what you mean by not doing well when thrown into something in this context. Of course, any teacher should give you training exercises appropriate to beginner levels.

E pra amor de D*eus, Jennell: it's *Capoeira*. If you've been to Brazil that many times you know it's pronounced "cap-way-ruh" or "ca-poo-eh-ra" so why are you deliberately spelling it that way? Really weakens your argument., imho. Sorry but it's a pet peeve when people call it "CapoeiTa" (or "Capoetia"?!?) and insist they are right. However, tell me where in Brazil it's pronounced that way and I will eat humble pie.