CAPOEIRA is a martial art that comes from Brazil. It was developed in Brazil by African slaves. Its aesthetics are unique to itself, although draw on it’s rich African heritage. Capoeira is more than just another martial art form. It’s consider by many to be a performing art form, as it is an art of expression, play and personal interaction developed in the oppressive atmosphere and environment of slavery, that has survived into the 21st century. Capoeira is referred to as a jogo, or game.
Capoeira is characterized by many as having deceptive kicks, escapes, acrobatic and gymnastics movements. The game (jogo) is played in a circle (roda). Most movements come out of the ginga, a basic dance pattern that disguises its power to attack. The emphasis is on being tricky, to challenge your partner to respond to your movements and try to catch them off guard while they do the same to you. At the head of the roda are musicians, fellow Capoeira players, who play instruments specific to the art.
There is the Berimbau the main instrument in the roda. The berimbau is a primitive bowed instrument, played by a Mestre (master) or lead instructor. The berimbau is also accompanied by other instruments like the pandeiro (tambourine) and atabaque (conga) a floor drum. The Mestre also leads the onlookers and fellow capoeiristas in songs that reflect the type of games being played within the roda. In its true and deepest level, Capoeira transcends martial arts, music, dance and a strong tradition, and keeping in mind to be true to the spirit of the game, not to win points or injure your partner. Enjoyment and laughter are a vital element of the practice.