 |
The main goal of the class is to teach Capoeira in a fun and accessible manner, which permits interested
individuals of all ages and levels of fitness or athletic ability to learn the basic fundamentals of this art. Capoeira
is a very diversified martial art in that it incorporates self-defense applications, a form of dance, and musical instruments
together to create the "roda," or circle in which people play the game. Students will learn basic skills and movements,
which they will apply in the "roda: when they play capoeira. They will also achieve increased flexibility and balance
due to the nature of the movements, learn self-defense skills, and gain rhythmic understanding and expression from the instrumental
instruction and singing. In addition to learning basic drum rhythems and traditional songs, the students also have the
opportunity to learn how to play th berimbau: a one-stringed guitar-like instrument played with a stick and a rock.
While some people are drawn to Capoeira by it's dance-like movements, others find they are drawn by the music and wish to
concentrate more on that aspect of the art. Some enjoy Capoeira simply for the exercise. Whatever the interest,
people are encouraged to learn and enjoy an art, which allows them to attain their fitness, artistic, or self-defense goals.
A typical class begins with stretches followed by a light cardiovascular warm-up with some jumping and the
"jinga," the first basic movement of Capoeira. A tape or C.D. of Capoeira Music usually accompanies the warm-up and
basic skills portion of the class. After a sufficient warm-up periodwe then go to one side of the room and movement
is demonstrated crossing the class floor. A basic example of this would be a cartwheel. As the student gains experience
with time, the more adept can cross first, allowing the newer students to watch before taking turns. Two-person movements
are then practiced. This enables students to watch before taking their turns. Two-person movements are then practiced.
This enables students to get a feel for how the "roda" or circle will be. Afterwards, the class will make a "roda" to
play Capoeira. The instruments, particularly the Berimbau, signify the opening of the circle where one must
enter to begin play. Two players squat before the berimbau, wait for the player with the berimbau to signal, then enter
the "roda." In beginning classes, the c.d. player suffices as the "batteria" or instrument section of the
"roda." For beginning students, portions of some classes will be set aside for learning the instruments.
Also, during each class, the instruments are available for practice when resting as others are crossing the floor,
or when they and their partner take a break from activity during the two-person practice. The capoeira c.d.'s or tapes
playing in the background during classtime serve to help them hear the rhythem and try for themselves when they
so desire (the berimbau has only three basic sounds so it is not difficult to learn how to play). The clothes worn
for Capoeira include a white T-shirt and the abada, white pants held up by a "corda," (rope), which is colored by rank.
Senzala, my Capoeira group, is one of the most respected in all of Brazil. My master, Mestre Peixinho,
has given workshops throughout the world. He is admired not only for his incredible technique and ability, but also
for his integrity and loyalty to his students. Much of Brazil's youth falls prey to bad social elements such as drugs,
gangs and crime and live in extremely poor areas of the city without even a bathtub or toilet in their make-shift homes.
Senzala has given them self-esteem, pride and a sense of belonging as well as skills to protect themselves, cultural identity
and physical fitness. They also learn how to make the Capoeira instruments, enabling them to earn money selling their
wares as well as teaching Capoeira after achieving instructor level. They also enjoy doing demonstrations and public
shows. It is my intent and desire to bring these aspects of my culture and background in Capoeira to Hawaii where I
now make my home. I have taught a variety of ages and skill levels how to play and appreciate Capoeira, and wish to
continue to do so throughout my entire life.
|
|
