Upon uploading my bio on the M Network website the one question I’ve received most is, “So, you used to be a Brazilian breakdance fighter?”
That’s not just a witty comment to make my profile feel fun or mysterious. I have spent the majority of the last 23 years learning the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira, comically known in the U.S. as breakdance fighting.
As funny as it may sound, the term breakdance fighting is how Capoeira is seen by most of world, and I don’t see that as a bad thing. Martial arts is based on deception and Capoeira is no different. In my experience, being underestimated in a fight is one of the best conditions you can hope for. Capoeira conceals its deadly kicks, counter attacks and spontaneous acrobatics with the frame work of a dance all while avoiding getting kicked in the face.
Other than the similarity in some movements, as breakdancing is closely based on Capoeira, the most common reason for the breakdance confusion is because Capoeira is also set to music. The main instrument in the Capoeira orchestra is the Berimbau, pronounced beer-eem-ba-ow. It resembles an archer’s bow with a resonating gourd on one end. The single string is struck with a stick and a rock is used as a bridge to change the pitch. It may sound primitive but with only one string the Berimbau can create hundreds of rhythms and is credited as being the oldest known stringed instrument and the great grandfather to the modern guitar.
In Capoeira the Berimbau sets the rhythm that all movements will follow. In Capoeira these rhythms are called “toques”. There are toques for moving slow and low to the ground, ones that act as a warning call and others that call for full contact fighting.
My favorite toque is called Iúna. In Capoeira, the toque Iúna refers to a South American bird otherwise known as the Kamichi. The Kamichi is a massively large bird with a single featherless quill on top of its head. Combined with a loud powerful voice. it’s no surprise the Kamichi is also referred to as the Horned Screamer. Both the male and the female make a throaty “You-Who” call that can carry up to 2 miles away. During mating season, the birds are extremely vocal and mating calls can last for several hours.
Iúna is also a very expressive Capoeira game, typically played by masters or high level teachers. Iúna focuses on flashy movements, contortions and acrobatics. Iúna is one of the few Capoeira toques that’s not accompanied by singing. The rhythm is very distinct and acts as the catalyst for the show-off movements of Capoeira.
Many South American birds especially those in the rain forest have unique mating calls and some, like the Birds of Paradise, even dance to get a mate’s attention. This ritual is reflected not only in the rhythm of Iúna but also in the movements this rhythm calls for.
The skill and focus that’s required during the Iúna games is breathtaking to watch. It’s as if the Capoeirsta’s movements are being taunted by the rhythm. At the beginning of this game, only one Capoeirista comes to the center of the circle. This is his time to demonstrate flexibility, strength and flawless technique. The berimbau is challenging the Capoeirsta to move faster, flip higher and impress the crowd. When the Iúna game comes to a close, it’s not uncommon for the more talented Capoeiristas to be approached by adoring fans who are extremely impressed.
Now it’s time you listen to the sounds of the Iúna, here’s a video of me playing… Hope you enjoy!
