Primeira Igreja Batista do Rio de Janeiro

This attractive 19th-century church in the heart of Rio's downtown may lie a little off the beaten track, but it offers some real musical treats to those who make the effort to find it. More than 125 years of practice have helped the church choir perfect their art, and the antique organ lends a real depth to the musical performances. From flute and organ performances to funky gospel-tinged services, the music here is nothing if not varied. A frantic percussion will have even the most straight-laced of church goers tapping their feet, and the church also runs courses teaching young people from the local community to play everything from the drums to violin. There's no entrance charge, but donations are always welcome. - Lucy Bryson

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