Berimbau
The Berimbau is the main instrument that controls the game in Capoeira. It is played according to the rhythms it plays (fast, slow, medium). It is important for Capoeirists to listen to the rhythms played by the Berimbau inside the Roda (hoda). According to sound variety, there are 3 types of Berimbau:
- Gunga – the lowest tone
- Médio – medium tone
- Viola – the highest tone
The Berimbau consists of:
- The resonator part of the Berimbau is made from a gourd (Cabaça) grown in Brazil
- A wooden branch made from biriba or bamboo trees grown in Brazil (verga)
- Wire used to bend the verga from both ends (arame)
- A stick (baqueta)
- Woven from mat material and containing seeds similar to chickpeas inside (caxixi)
- A stone or specially prepared round metal (dobrão)
Atabaque
The Atabaque is a musical instrument with roots in Arabic and Persian origins. It spread in Afro-Brazilian regions and was incorporated into Capoeira. Its body is usually made from Jacaranda wood grown in Brazil. The top is made from the skin of animals such as cows, goats, etc. A mallet is used to play the Atabaque.
Pandeiro
Animal skin is stretched over a wooden frame, with 6 pieces of metal discs around it. It is possible to play by means of the tension on the upper part of the Pandeiro. The Pandeiro is considered a symbol of samba in Brazil and is also Brazil’s national musical instrument.