Today, Xote Afigurado remains a vital part of the Traditionalist Movement (MTG) in Rio Grande do Sul. It is taught in CTGs ( Centros de Tradições Gaúchas ) and featured in major festivals, serving as a living link to the region's 19th-century European and local frontier heritage.
It maintains a 2/4 or 4/4 time signature but with a "swing" that distinguishes it from the more rigid European schottische. The tempo is usually moderate—fast enough to be energetic for dancing but slow enough to allow for precise footwork. Xote Afigurado
Dancers perform specific patterns or "figures" during the instrumental breaks, often involving spins, hand-switching, and synchronized steps. Today, Xote Afigurado remains a vital part of
The gaita (button or piano accordion) is the primary instrument, providing the syncopated, rhythmic backbone. It is typically accompanied by the acoustic guitar ( violão ) and sometimes a bass or percussion. The tempo is usually moderate—fast enough to be