Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, music, and dance. Also known as the ‘Dance of War’. It’s a great workout, increases energy, strength, flexibility and self awareness. It is said to be the most underestimated of martial arts, making it a mystery to many martial artists.
There are two Main styles of Capoeira, namely Capoeira Angola (the original style) and Capoeira Regional (Brazilian style). A new ‘contemporary’ style is evolving currently.
The ritual of capoeira begins when two players enter the circle and squat at the foot of the berimbau. One player will then sing a ladainha (a ritual song of commencement). If the other player does not respond with a song of his own, he will begin another song, a corrido (a song for going out to play). The song is then passed on to one of the musicians as the jogo-de-capoeira starts.
Such movements as cartwheels, handstands, spinning kicks and spontaneous acrobatics characterize a capoeira game. The object of the game is for the capoeiristas to use finesse, guile and technique to maneuver one another into a defenseless position, rendering them open to a blow, kick or sweep. Being swept and landing on ones bottom disqualifies a player. In general, there is no contact from strikes. An implied strike is more admired, particularly when the opponent has been manipulated into a defenseless position. All strikes, evasions, and counterstrikes are woven together creatively as the game progresses. The freedom to improvise and create openings keeps Capoeira’s action fluid and fresh.
There is a limited use of hands for offensive techniques. This is most likely based on an ancient kongo belief that hands should be used for good work (construction) and feet for bad work (destruction).
There are many theories on this subject. We are not purporting that we are the “Owners of the Truth” but are simply putting across one of the believed theories.
GAMES AND RHYTHM
Benguela: a game in rhythm, an average combination between ‘game seeing’
and Acrobatics.
Regional: A fast game combined of fast, high moves.
Angola: A slow-paced game which aim is “thinking” and moving with the other
player.
Iuna: A fast game with a lot of Acrobatics, a “flowing” game. “Iuna,”, is the beat
that call forth the “purest, most beautiful movement.” It is very much a
dance, gymnastic and graceful
São Bento Grande: which pushes the players to move quickly and powerfully.
It is a fast and driving rhythm.
São Bento Pequeno: In between Iuna and São Bento Pequeno it elicits a soft
fight with moments of suspension and breath
It is the music of Capoeira that first startles the uninitiated, the songs that make the connection between martial art and dance. The music dictates the speed, rhythm and feeling of the moment. Each rhythm, like each step, has its own name.
lista de toques:
- Angola
- São Bento Grande
- São Bento Pequeno
- Santa Maria
- Benguela
- Cavalaria
- Iúna
Other toques that are used:
- Idalina
- São Bento Grande Gêge
- 5 Salomao
- Muzenza
- Benguela Sustendida
- Ave Maria
- Jogo do dentro
- Angola em Gêge
- Amazonas
- Ijexa
- Samango
- Barravento
- Apanha Laranja
