THE MUSIC
In capoeira, music sets the rhythm, the style of play, and the energy of a game.
Music is integral to capoeira. It sets the tempo and style of game that is to be played within the roda. The music is composed of instruments and song.
The tempos differ from very slow (Angola) to fast (São Bento Grande). Many of the songs are sung in a call and response format while others are in the form of a narrative. Capoeiristas sing about a wide variety of subjects. Some songs are about history or stories of famous capoeiristas.
Other songs attempt to inspire players to play better. Some songs are about what is going on within the roda. Sometimes the songs are about life, or love lost. Others are lighthearted or even silly things, sung just for fun.
Capoeiristas change their playing style significantly as the songs or rhythm from the berimbau commands. In this manner, it is truly the music that drives capoeira.
Instruments
Songs and Lyrics
