Capoeira is a cultural expression and a type of fight characterized by its agile, acrobatic, and harmonious movements, in tune with choreographic aspects. The repertoire includes kicks and spins full of ginga, malice, and rhythm, using the feet and head more than the hands.
With a peculiar timbre, the berimbau is the main instrument used in capoeira. It dictates the rhythm and style of playing capoeira by producing a distinctive sound. The instrument basically consists of a wire, a stick, and a gourd (the hollow fruit of the calabash tree).
The game of capoeira in Brazil emerged as a form of resistance by slaves brought from Africa during colonial times. Besides being used for physical defense, capoeira was a way to preserve the identity of African slaves.
Among the various styles, there are 3 main ones:
• Capoeira Angola – the oldest, dating back to the days of slavery. Its main characteristics are: moves very close to the ground, a slower musical rhythm, and a lot of malice. During the roda, participants do not clap.
• Capoeira Regional – retains the malice, but the musical rhythm and movements are faster and sharper. Acrobatic moves are used less. During the roda, participants clap.
• Contemporary Capoeira – the most practiced today, combining features of both Capoeira Angola and Regional.
Today, the game of capoeira is a heritage of Brazilian culture and represents a significant part of our history. Some Brazilian characteristics are easily identified in the game, such as the ability to improvise, creativity, and flexibility to adapt. All these adjectives are reflected in popular sayings, like “taco” (ability to adapt) and “Paranauê” (highlighted in a famous capoeira song, referring to the person who masters improvisation), both derived from capoeira.
Bahia is one of the cradles of the game, and you can probably watch a roda de capoeira in Salvador. Other places also keep this culture alive. With luck, on a Brazilian beach, you can enjoy the pleasant rhythm of the berimbau up close.
Source: Brazilgovnews