Songs as storytelling
By Leonela Torres Saavedra
Today, we had the amazing opportunity to attend and participate in a Capoeira workshop! Prior to this experience, I did not know what it was or what to expect. I learned that Capoeira is a style of Afro-Brazilian martial arts and dance accompanied by music performed with instruments or by the spectators. It is important to highlight that this style emerged during the 300 years of slavery in Brazil by Portuguese colonists. This style of martial arts is believed to have been used to resist getting captured, a symbol of resistance. Now, those who practice Capoeira use it to turn struggles, conflicts, and fears into a celebration.
Right away, we jumped in! They taught us an easy sequence that involved us stepping back and swinging our arms. Then, from that same original step, we added more sequencing. We got asked to get into two lines where we would each take turns in pairs to demonstrate our skills. Long story short, it looked a lot easier than it was. Many of us, including myself, struggled with sequencing involving upper body strength such as a bear crawl. We were also told there was some unevenness in our energy when we walked in, so this partner activity would help us all connect in the best way possible.
Once we had the gist of it, we were asked to form a circle called a “roda” which we were explained is where a lot of the energy and rhythm comes from. Those forming the circle keep the rhythm by playing their instruments such as the Berimbau, Atabaque, Agogo, and Pandeiro or by clapping. As others circle up, two players go in the center of the circle to battle. Some classmates seemed natural and that they have had recent practice in the art and we enjoyed watching eachother perform and learn together.
We were taught a little bit more about the music itself, which has a close connection to our ancestors. These songs are used as a way of storytelling highlighting the narrative of slavery, liberation, and culture. We sang along as we watched each other battle in the center of the circle as well as see what it looks like when two professionals are improvising. Towards the end, some of us got to play the instruments which was a lot of fun!
