The Berimbaus of Capoeira:
Harmony, Rhythm and Tradition
The berimbau, the emblematic instrument of Capoeira, orchestrates the rhythm and style of play in the roda, the arena where capoeiristas meet. This unique instrument consists of a bow, called the “verga”, made of hardwood, on which a steel wire, the “arame”, is stretched; the wire is usually salvaged from an old tyre. To produce its distinctive resonant sound, the berimbau is fitted with a sound box attached to its base. Usually made from a dried gourd, it is called the “cabaça” and plays a crucial role in amplifying the berimbau’s musical vibrations. Accompanied by a caxixi (a small basket with seeds inside) and a stick about 35 cm long, the “baqueta”, the berimbau comes to life under the musician’s precise strikes. The instrument’s characteristic sound is modulated by pressing a “dobrão”, a coin or metal disc, against the arame, allowing the player to create a variety of tones and melodies.
Beyond its musical function, the berimbau guides capoeiristas both spiritually and tactically, dictating the rhythm of the game, the movements to perform and the intensity of the encounter. Its playing invites free bodily expression and a rhythmic conversation between the players, creating a deep connection between music, movement and the soul of Capoeira.
Each rhythm played on the berimbau has a name and a specific context, from the call to concentrate before the fight to the invitation to a more acrobatic or strategic game. These rhythms are a language in themselves, a non-verbal communication that passes on the principles and history of Capoeira, making the berimbau much more than a simple musical instrument: it is the beating heart of Capoeira.
The 3 types of berimbau
The Gunga berimbau holds a place of honour in the musical ensemble that accompanies the Capoeira roda, standing out as the deepest-toned of the three berimbaus traditionally used in the art. Thanks to its larger gourd, the Gunga produces deep, resonant sounds that act as the rhythmic foundation of Capoeira sessions. As the lead berimbau, the Gunga is often played by the mestre or the most experienced teacher, who sets the tempo and intensity of the game in the roda.
The Gunga’s role is essential not only in regulating the rhythm but also in communicating commands and changes of dynamic within the circle. Its low, penetrating notes command respect and draw attention, creating a deep connection between the capoeiristas, the music and the dance.
The Médio berimbau, which sits between the Gunga and the Viola in the Capoeira orchestra, plays a crucial role in the balance and harmony of the roda. The Médio’s role is to accompany and complement the rhythm set by the Gunga, while leaving room for the Viola’s melodic improvisations. This subtle interplay between the three berimbaus creates a rich, deep musical experience that reflects the complexity and diversity of the exchanges within the roda. Thanks to its intermediate position, the Médio contributes to the overall balance of the performance, enabling smooth transitions between different rhythms and intensities of play, and allowing capoeiristas to adapt and respond to the music with agility and expressiveness.
The Viola berimbau, for its part, charms the Capoeira roda with its high-pitched melodies and fast rhythms. Smaller than the Gunga and the Médio, the Viola stands out for its melodic variations and distinctive timbre, which enrich the dynamics of the music. An instrument for virtuosos, it demands great skill to unlock its expressive potential, introducing nuances that boost the energy of the participants.
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MANTRAS
Energy is not created, it is shared.
