rhythms

In class, you will hear four main types of rhythms, each associated with a type of game.

Angola - More than just a kind of game, Angola is Capoeira in its most historical, raw form. It constitutes its own, completely exclusive style. At Capoeira Brasil, a student does not begin to learn this style of Capoeira until he or she is at a higher level in their training. Because the technique and ritual is very different, a student must be graduated, having a solid base in Capoeira Regional Contemporanea before learning the new language of Angola. It is a slow rhythm, and the players are extremely expressive with their bodies, playing close and low. Angola games are long, and involve mental concentration as much as physical skill. "Mandinga," which is essentially trickiness or cleverness, is fundamental in Angola.

Benguela - This game was created by Manoel dos Reis Machado, the famous Mestre Bimba. It's a medium rhythm, where Capoeiristas test each other, play close and develop their more complex movements. As a beginner you will first learn to play to the Benguela rhythm.

Regional - This game is fast. Players move quickly, using the same types of movements as in a Benguela game, but much faster and dynamic. This is also the game in which players may explore the "fight" of Capoeira. Response and reflexes must be on point, in order to be able to react quickly enough to fast, powerful kicks.

Iúna - Following the tradition of Capoeira Regional, the game of Iúna is extremely technical. Only the most graduated students of the group are permitted to play this game in the presence of the master. It's a game in which the Capoeirista demonstrates his or her skills to the best of his or her ability. It is accompanied only by the orchestra and the applause following each game.

(reproduced from Mestre Boneco's website)