Capoeira is a unique art form that can be interpreted in various ways. Some perceive it as a dance, others as a martial art, while some regard it as a game. This versatility allows capoeira to be tailored to individual preferences. Some capoeiristas perform their movements slowly, resembling meditation, while others exhibit lightning-fast agility in their actions. In either case, all movements are performed in conjunction with live music and song.
In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of the different styles, and most importantly, you will develop the ability to respond quickly to new challenges. This valuable skill will benefit you both within and beyond the realm of capoeira. Additionally, you will learn to play the various musical instruments associated with capoeira, as well as sing the accompanying songs and understand their historical context.
Capoeira Music
The essence of capoeira is that it is performed with live music. We sing songs that talk about history, songs that offer inspiration to practice the art, and songs that bring joy to people.
The main musical instruments used in capoeira are the berimbau, atabaque, pandeiro, and agogô. However, you may also encounter the reco-reco on certain occasions. In this class, you will have the chance to learn to play all of them, or at least most of them.
Maculelê
There is a dance that goes along with capoeira, called the Maculelê. Capoeira is a dance that became a fight, and the Maculelê is a fight that became a dance. This dance, like capoeira, is performed by two people, each holding two wooden sticks. The sticks simulate the fight while also helping to match the rhythms.