Free Intro Class

ABOUT CAPOEIRA

What is

Capoeira?

Capoeira is a unique Afro-Brazilian martial art developed initially by African slaves in Brazil, starting in the colonial period. It is marked by deft, tricky movements often played on the ground or completely inverted. Renowned for its fluidity, grace, and power, Capoeira combines elements of martial-arts, dance, music and acrobatics.  It develops strength, coordination, self-confidence, musical skills, flexibility, endurance, confidence and self-awareness.

 
There are two main styles of Capoeira that are clearly distinct. Angola is characterized by slower, lower play with particular attention to the rituals and tradition of Capoeira. The other style, Regional is known for its fluid acrobatic play, where technique and strategy are the key points. Regional was created by Mestre Bimba. Both styles are marked by the use of feints, use groundwork extensively, as well as sweeps, kicks, and headbutts.  Sinha Capoeira is a practices Regional style of Capoeira, focusing on newer and more martially-oriented game.

Regional is more mainstream and accessible to the public. While ‘capoeiristas’ (Capoeira players) can sometimes play Angola-like, slow games, the Regional style is most often composed of fast and athletic play.  It is combat-oriented while maintaining the trickiness of Capoeira Angola.

The Capoeira game is challenging both physically and mentally.  It requires trickery, strategy and playful mischief at times.   It is a brilliant fusion of fight and dance!!!  Capoeira is one of the fastest growing cultural art forms in the world.

Capoeira 

Music

At its core, Capoeira music is a form of oral tradition passed down through generations of practitioners. The music is played on traditional Brazilian instruments such as the berimbau, pandeiro, and atabaque, each with its unique sound and role in the music.

 

 

Instruments

berimbau2

Instruments

Berimbau

The berimbau, a single-stringed instrument played with a wooden bow, is the lead instrument in Capoeira music. It sets the tempo and rhythm for the game and is used to signal changes in the pace and style of the game.

 

atabaque

Instruments

Atabaque

The atabaque, a type of hand drum, provides the deep, resonant bass that drives the music forward. It is also used to add complexity and depth to the music, particularly during the more intense moments of the game.

Instruments

Pandeiro

The pandeiro, a type of tambourine, provides the melody and rhythm for the music. Its sound is crisp and clear, and it is often used to accentuate the movements of the Capoeira players.

berimbau

Together, these instruments create a dynamic and compelling soundscape that is unique to Capoeira. The music is designed to enhance the movements of the Capoeira players, adding an element of drama and excitement to the game.

In addition to the instruments, Capoeira music also features traditional songs known as ladainhas and corridos. These songs tell stories of Capoeira’s history and traditions, and they are sung in a call-and-response style, with the players and audience joining in the singing.

Overall, Capoeira music is a vital part of the Capoeira experience. It adds depth and meaning to the game, helping to create a sense of community and tradition that is unique to this fascinating martial art.

CAPOEIRA FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IF I HAVE NEVER DONE CAPOEIRA BEFORE?

You have to start somewhere? We start by teaching you the basic movements and you take it from there.

I HAVE NEVER TAKEN ANY TYPE OF MARTIAL ART OR DANCE CLASS. CAN I STILL TRY CAPOEIRA?

Capoeira does not require that you have prior experience on any type of physical activity!

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN CAPOEIRA?

Think of it as learning a new language. The more of the language you learn, the more clearly you can express yourself to others. If your goal is to have a conversation with someone that consists of, “Hi, how are you?” and “I am fine, thank you”, you should be able to do that within a month or two. If you plan to discuss world politics or philosophy, be prepared to spend more time learning the language.

WHAT IF I AM NOT FLEXIBLE OR NOT IN BEST PHYSICAL CONDITION?

Don’t let this discourage you! Capoeira is for everyone!!! Young or old, short or tall, girl or boy! Of course, the more you train, the faster you will see results!

SHOULD I BRING ANYTHING?

Open mind and positive attitude! Bring a water bottle.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

For your first class, comfortable workout wear is fine. Should you decide to sign-up, we have uniforms available for purchase.

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