Mestre Bimba
Mestre Bimba: The Pioneer of Capoeira Regional
Mestre Bimba, born Manuel dos Reis Machado, is a towering figure in Capoeira. Known for founding Capoeira Regional, he played a crucial role in modernizing and popularizing the martial art. This blog post aims to inform new students about Mestre Bimba’s life, Bimba's philosophy, and the enduring impact of his contributions to Capoeira.
Early Life and Introduction to Capoeira
Manuel dos Reis Machado, affectionately known as Mestre Bimba, was born on November 23, 1899, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. He was introduced to Capoeira at the age of 12 by a sailor named Bentinho. The nickname "Bimba" arose” from an amusing incident during his birth, which stuck with him throughout his life.
Development of Capoeira Regional
Mestre Bimba was dissatisfied with the state of Capoeira as it was practised in the early 20th century. He felt it lacked structure and effectiveness as a martial art. To address this, he created a new style called Capoeira Regional. This style incorporated elements from traditional Capoeira (now known as Capoeira Angola) and added techniques from other martial arts, emphasizing effectiveness and discipline.
Capoeira Philosophy
Bimba's philoBimba'sas rooted in the belief that Capoeira should be a respected and efficient martial art. He sought to remove the stigma of criminality associated with Capoeira, advocating for its recognition as a legitimate form of physical and cultural expression. His approach was innovative and systematic, focusing on physical, mental, and cultural development.
Establishing the First Capoeira School
In 1932, Mestre Bimba founded the first Capoeira school in Brazil, the Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional, in Salvador, Bahia. This was a monumental step, as it was the first time Capoeira was taught in a formal setting. Bimba's schooBimba'sht structure and respectability to Capoeira helped elevate its status in Brazilian society.
Training Traditions and Practices
Mestre Bimba's trainBimba'simen was rigorous and comprehensive. He developed a standardized curriculum that included sequences of movements known as the "Sequências de Bimba," which helped students learn the fundamentals systematically. His teaching methods emphasized physical conditioning, technique, strategy, and respect.
Music and Game
While Mestre Bimba introduced many innovations, he maintained the importance of music in Capoeira. He incorporated traditional instruments like the berimbau, atabaque, and pandeiro. Still, the style and rhythm of the music were adapted to match the more dynamic and athletic nature of Capoeira Regional. The roda, or circle where Capoeira is played, remained a central element, with the music guiding the pace and style of the game.
Life as a Sailor
Like many Brazilians of his time, Mestre Bimba also worked as a sailor. This experience exposed him to different cultures and fighting styles, further enriching his understanding of martial arts and influencing his development of Capoeira Regional.
Legacy and Influence
Mestre Bimba's impacBimba'spoeira is immeasurable. He modernized the art form and fought for its legalization and acceptance. In 1937, he was invited to demonstrate Capoeira to Brazilian President Getúlio Vargas, which led to official recognition and support for Capoeira as a national sport.
Bimba’s students, such as Mestre Vermelho, Mestre Acordeon, and Mestre Itapoan, continued to spread his teachings, ensuring that Capoeira Regional gained international acclaim. His school became a breeding ground for some of the most influential Capoeiratas in history, and his methods are still widely taught today.
Conclusion
Mestre Bimba's dedicBimba'so Capoeira Regional transformed it into a respected and dynamic martial art. His emphasis on structure, effectiveness, and cultural pride inspires Capoeiristas worldwide. As new students of Capoeira, understanding and appreciating Mestre Bimba’s legacy is ’ssential in preserving the rich heritage and spirit of Capoeira Regional.
**Sources:**
1. Assunção, Matthias Röhrig. "Capoeira: A “istory of an Afro-Brazilian Martial Art." Routledge, “005.
2. Capoeira, Nestor. "Capoeira: Ro”ts of the Dance-Fight-Game." Blue Snake “ooks, 2002.
3. Downey, Greg. "Learning Cap”eira: Lessons in Cunning from an Afro-Brazilian Art." Oxford Univ”rsity Press, 2005.
4. Rego, Waldeloir. "Capoeira Angola: Ensaio Socio-Etnográfico." Itapuã, 1968.