Music is an essential element to the art of Capoeira. The rhythmic pulses that resound from the berimbau (Capoeira’s main instrument, bow like), the beating of the drums, and the overflowing sound of singing participants all add to the dynamic energy that is Capoeira. In fact it is almost impossible to play capoeira with out music. There would be no rhythm, and since the moves and kicks depend on rhythm and timing, there would be no capoeira. This is what separates this art form from other Martial Arts. The Berimbau is a bow-like instrument which is held taught by a single string and uses a gourd fixed at its base for a resonator. Notes are created by using a combination of a rock or coin to change the pitch and a stick to strike the string. Though this is one of the oldest instruments in the world and is simple, a novice will find it difficult to handle. But in the hands of a skilled master, the melodies and rhythms produced are phenomenal.

The Berimbau is the main instrument in Capoeira. Its rhythms dictate the type of game to be played in the roda. It has the ability to call for a calm beautiful game or require a fast aggressive game to be played. It will let a player know when to enter and when to exit. History has it, that the slaves used the berimbau to disguise. In the presence of the slave master dance like rhythms would be played while the slaves danced harmlessly. But with the absence of the master a different rhythm would be played, indicating to the slaves to change their game. They could now train and improve their Capoeira skill required to help them fight for freedom.

Without music where would Capoeira be? Would it still posses its rhythmic style and flashy acrobatics? The transfer of energy or axe would not happen without the instruments and the singing of capoeiraistas. It is the music that provides the driving force to the vehicle that is Capoeira. Without it Capoeira would not exist.