Capoeira is unique to any other martial art due to the live music.  Capoeira is usually performed with a live orchestra that consists of 3 Berimbaus (a one string instrument native to Capoeira), Atabaque (something that is similar to a conga but is held down by ropes instead of metal), Pandeiro (a tambourine like instrument that is usually native to Samba), and many times Agogo (a hollow instrument that is hit with a stick to make a high and a low sound), and reco reco (a wooden instrument with grooves in the middle that is swiped with a stick to make a rattle like sound).  Capoeira consists also of live singing and is played in a circle of spectators, which are usually other Capoeira players that form the chorus.  Capoeira's positive vibe and the fact that the sparring is called playing not fighting gives capoeira the popular name of the art of fighting with a smile.  It builds a positive environment where the number one priority is to train hard yet have fun.  The music in Capoeira is also very important due to the game, the rhythm of the music tells you what type of a game is being played.  Rather it's slow, fast, or even rather you will be more physical (using it as a martial art) or more artistic like a dance.  Capoeira is often compared to a conversation, the idea is never to block but to instead transform you partners motion into another motion.  It combines flexibility, explosion, rhythm, and flow.  Most Capoeira games will seem as if they were choreographed  when played correctly.  For more information fill out the box to the right or call us at (603) 782-8915.

The Art Of Capoeira