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Capoeira Instruments |
| The thing that sets Capoeira apart from
other Martial Arts or Sports is that there are so many different aspects.
Capoeira has its own musical Instruments which when played in it's various
rhythms determine the speed and style of game that will be played. The
music is the soul of the game. It is the driving force that gives players
the extra kick of energy to perform amazing movements or give physical
and mental endurance in a long or difficult game. The music also gives
a friendly and energetic atmosphere that goes hand in hand with Brazilian
culture. |
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| Berimbau |
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| This is the lead Instrument of Capoeira.
It determines what rhythm is being played and sets the speed to which
all other Instruments will follow. The Berimbau is a Verga (long wooden
bow) with an Arame (metal string) pulled taught along it's front. A Cabaca
(hollowed out gourd) is used as a sound box towards the bottom end. A
Baqueta (thin stick) is used to strike the metal string. A small flat
Dobrao (stone) or Moeda (coin) is placed on the string to change it's
pitch. A Caxixi (woven shaker) is also held to compliment it's entrancing
sound. There are three different types of Berimbau depending on the size
/ pitch of the Cabaca, Viola, Medio and Gunga. One, two or three Berimbaus
are used depending on the rhythm being played. |
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| Atabaque |
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| Similar to a conga, this traditional wooden
drum gives the beat to the game. There are three different sizes of Atabaque
and more than one can be used at a time. Normally only one is used in
Capoeira. |
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| Pandeiro |
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| Similar to a tambourine only slightly bigger
and having skin stretched across it's top. One or two are used depending
on the rhythm being played. |
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| Agogo Bell |
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| The Agogo is two cylinder bells connected
together by a metal rod. The bell of higher pitch is positioned above
the other. The bells are struck by a Baqueta (thin stick). This instrument
is not always used in Capoeira but adds a richer sound to the orchestra. |
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| Reco Reco |
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| The Reco Reco or fish stick is a piece of
wood with grooves cut out of it's top. A smaller piece of wood is scrapped
across the grooves giving it's sound. This instrument is not always used
in Capoeira, but adds a richer sound to the orchestra. |
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| Bate Palma |
| Everyone without and instrument are still
involved with the music of Capoeira. The Clapping of Hands to the rhythm
being played is important. Along with the instruments everyone clapping
makes for an electrifying atmosphere for everyone involved, especially
the two players in the center of the circle who are surrounded by sound. |
