The Many Varieties of Capoeira Rhythms

By: M. Marques

​Even though it contains just two notes played with a single string, the berimbau is used in capoeira to convey a variety of meanings that are fundamental in understanding how to play it. In capoeira, it is the rhythm of the music which controls the movements of the players and denotes the type of the game. The secret to being good at capoeira is to pay more attention to what the music is telling you to do, rather than what your opponent is making you do!

There are mainly 7 different types of capoeira rhythms that lead the game: Angola, São Bento, Santa Maria, Amazonas, Idalina, Benguela, and Iúna. They all symbolise different things that add to the many layers of Capoeira.
 
Angola is used for slow, low games, in which the dancers hold their hand on the ground. The players are grounded and loose, using balanced movements to play. This is the most common rhythm and the origin of capoeira.
 
São Bento is a more energetic and loud beat, played with a medium-sized berimbau and two tambourines to accompany the rhythm (this formation is called ‘charanga’). The players require attention and skill to keep up with the high, fast energy of the game.
 
Santa Maria is one of the most beautiful rhythms to be played in capoeira, with a long arpeggio of notes which sets the beat for profound matches.
 
Amazonas is one of the most difficult beats in capoeira, due to its rich rhythm and subtle, sudden melodic variations throughout the game. It is used for festive celebrations to greet visitors from other regions and places.
 
Idalina does not have a specific requirement for the players to dance to – they just have to steadily go along with the music. The beat is intermittent, so this one is also frequently used for the improvement of the dancers’ movements. It’s close to a ‘freestyle’ rhythm.
 
Benguela is used for a more rhythmic, quick and short, steady game. It is exclusively not a fighting game, and one of the most peaceful rhythms in capoeira.
 
Finally, Iúna is  based on the birdsong of the Iúna bird, with flourishing movements. Only experts in capoeira are allowed to participate in this game. During the performance, only instruments are to be played, with no singing. It is used to determine the hierarchy between masters and trainees.
 
Capoeira has been alive for hundreds of years, and following these rules have made it even more valued throughout these years!