Berimbau

Definition

The berimbau is a traditional Brazilian musical instrument that originated from African cultures and is made of a single string attached to a wooden bow, often played with a stick and a small stone or coin. It plays a central role in capoeira, a martial art that combines dance, acrobatics, and music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and African influence in Brazilian music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The berimbau is constructed from a flexible wooden bow, usually made from biriba wood, with a wire or fishing line string that produces unique sounds when struck.
2. It has three main types based on the size and tension of the string: gunga (low tone), meio (medium tone), and viola (high tone), each serving different roles in music.
3. In capoeira, the berimbau sets the rhythm and mood for the game, signaling changes in the intensity and style of play between practitioners.
4. The player uses a thin stick called a 'baqueta' to strike the string and creates percussive sounds by tapping the resonating gourd attached to the instrument.
5. The berimbau is not just an instrument; it is seen as a cultural symbol of resistance and resilience, representing the African roots in Brazilian culture.

Review Questions

• How does the berimbau influence the dynamics of capoeira performances?
  • The berimbau significantly influences capoeira by setting the tempo and mood for each game. Its distinct sounds signal changes in pace and intensity, guiding players on when to escalate or de-escalate their movements. As players respond to its rhythms, it creates a lively interaction that enhances both the martial and dance aspects of capoeira.
• In what ways does the construction and playing technique of the berimbau reflect its cultural significance?
  • The construction of the berimbau showcases traditional craftsmanship using local materials like biriba wood and gourd resonators, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to Brazilian culture. The playing technique involves unique methods such as striking with a baqueta and controlling pitch through body positioning, emphasizing both musicality and physical skill. This integration of art and movement highlights how the berimbau embodies cultural expression in Brazilian society.
• Evaluate how the presence of the berimbau in capoeira connects to broader themes of cultural identity and resistance in Brazil.
  • The berimbau serves as a powerful symbol of cultural identity for Afro-Brazilian communities, embodying historical narratives of resilience against oppression. In capoeira, its rhythms encapsulate not only the art form but also a means of preserving African heritage amidst colonization. This connection illustrates how cultural practices like capoeira have been vital for fostering community solidarity and asserting identity within Brazil's diverse society.

Related terms

capoeira: A Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, often performed to the accompaniment of the berimbau.

caxixi: A small percussion instrument made of a woven basket filled with seeds or beads, commonly used alongside the berimbau in capoeira performances.

roda: A circle formed by participants during a capoeira performance where practitioners take turns playing and showcasing their skills, typically accompanied by the berimbau.