Berimbau

Definition

The berimbau is a traditional Brazilian musical instrument, characterized by its single-string bow, resonating gourd, and flexible playing technique. It is an essential element of capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, showcasing the cultural significance of the berimbau in both musical performance and social identity within Afro-Brazilian communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The berimbau is traditionally made from a wooden bow called 'verga,' which is strung with a wire or fishing line, and has a gourd (called 'cabaça') that serves as the resonator.
2. The pitch of the berimbau can be altered by adjusting the tension of the string or by placing a finger on it while playing, allowing for different tonal qualities.
3. Berimbaus are classified into three types based on their pitch: gunga (low), medio (medium), and viola (high), each contributing differently to capoeira music.
4. Playing the berimbau requires a combination of striking with a stick (called 'baqueta'), shaking a rattle (the caxixi), and manipulating the pitch with a resonating gourd.
5. In capoeira, the berimbau not only provides musical accompaniment but also signals changes in rhythm and style, guiding the movement of players during the roda.

Review Questions

• How does the design and construction of the berimbau influence its sound and role in capoeira?
  • The design of the berimbau, featuring a wooden bow strung with wire and paired with a resonating gourd, directly impacts its sound quality and tonal range. The gourd amplifies vibrations from the string, allowing for distinct pitches when played. This unique sound is essential for creating the rhythmic foundation of capoeira, influencing the energy and flow of movements within the roda.
• Discuss how the berimbau functions as more than just an instrument in capoeira culture.
  • Beyond being a musical instrument, the berimbau embodies cultural identity and community within capoeira. It serves as a communication tool among players during the roda, signaling changes in tempo or style. Additionally, it reflects historical influences from African heritage in Brazil, making it an important symbol of Afro-Brazilian culture and resilience.
• Evaluate the significance of different types of berimbaus in shaping musical diversity within capoeira performances.
  • Different types of berimbaus—gunga, medio, and viola—create a rich tapestry of sound that enhances musical diversity in capoeira performances. Each type contributes its own pitch and timbre, allowing for complex arrangements and interaction among musicians. This diversity not only showcases individual skill but also enriches the overall atmosphere of capoeira, fostering unity and creativity among practitioners as they respond to one another's movements in real time.

Related terms

capoeira: A Brazilian martial art that blends elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, often performed in a circle with the berimbau providing the rhythmic foundation.

caxixi: A small percussion instrument made of woven basketry filled with seeds or beads, often played alongside the berimbau to enhance its sound.

roda: The circular formation in which capoeira is performed, involving musicians and practitioners who engage in the martial art while the berimbau directs the rhythm.