Basics

The game ...
Two capoeiristas crouch beneath the Berimbau (a one stringed musical bow) where they shake hands, pay their respects and touch the ground.

Experience and guile is used to try and outwit the opponent in a friendly game that calls upon agility, quick reflexes and good humour. Toques (berimbau rhythms), singing and clapping create energy and influence the style of play, which starts tentatively, then increases in tempo with more risks taken. Only the feet, hands and head may touch the floor. There are no winners except when set in an official competition.

It takes around 3 months to start feeling comfortable with your game and to understand the fundaments of the roda.

The music ...
Music has always been an integral part of Capoeira and involves the whole group. Traditional songs tell stories passed down by Capoeiristas, some are made up on the spot and comment on the game taking place. The type and number of instruments played varies, at Capoeira Canal we use eight instruments 3 Berimbaus, 2 Pandeiros (tambourine), 1 Agogo (Cowbell), 1 Reco reco (Bamboo scraper) and 1 Atabaque (the floor drum).