What is Capoeira?
Capoeira is a Brazilian Martial Art that combines self-defence, acrobatics, music, singing and culture into one unique art form. It originates from the Brazilian-African slave trade, where slaves were banned from practising self-defence and therefore hid it with fluid, graceful dance-like moves.
Classes take the form of a warm-up followed by training individual moves or sequences before trying them out against an opponent in what is termed a "jogo" or a game. The game is played to music that tells the Capoeiristas how fast to play and what type of movements to use. The instruments used are traditional instruments that are played by students. The "pandeiro" tambourine, "atabaque" drum and a "berimbau" which is a bow-like instrument. Songs are sung that describe aspects of slavery and Brazilian culture.
Events are held throughout the year, such as Gradings (Batizado) and street Rodas. Students and teachers from Capoeira Nago in other countries also visit and give workshops, allowing for further cultural exchange.
