Contemporanea?

What Do We Stand for in Our Group?

In the vibrant world of Capoeira, traditions and rules play a significant role in defining the essence of different styles. While the broader capoeira community mainly recognises two styles—Angola and Regional—a newer unofficial version named "Contemporanea" ” has emerged in some groups. However, in Capoeira Resistencia Marlborough, we do not practice Contemporanea nor recognise it as a Style of Capoeira.

This decision is based on a deep respect for the traditions of different capoeira styles and a belief that blending styles without following their specific rules and structures undermines the integrity of the art form. This behaviour is disrespectful.

Understanding the Core Styles

1. Capoeira Angola:

- Origins: Considered the mother of all capoeira styles, Angola is deeply rooted in African traditions brought to Brazil by enslaved Africans. It emphasizes the game’s ceremonial and spiritual aspects.

- Characteristics: Although slower, it is physically demanding, strategic, and close to the ground; Angola is known for its deceptive movements and intricate footwork. The music played in an Angola roda is specific, with instruments like the berimbau, pandeiro, and atabaque setting a unique rhythm and atmosphere.

- Rituals and Rules: Angola games follow strict rituals, such as ladainhas, Chamadas, and Pasos.
Respect for these rituals is paramount in maintaining the style's authenticity.

2. Capoeira Regional:

- Origins: Developed by Mestre Bimba in the early 20th century, Regional was created to make capoeira more accepted and systematic, blending elements of traditional capoeira with other martial arts.

- Characteristics: Faster and more acrobatic, emphasising martial aspects and physical prowess.
It introduced formalized training sequences and techniques.

- Music and Structure: The music in Regional games is faster, and the sequences of moves (Sequencias de Bimba) are practised systematically. This structured approach differentiates it from the Angola style.

Is Contemporanea a style of Capoeira?

Under the concept, we believe and follow at Resistencia, Marlborough: No.

"Contemporanea" or Contemporary Capoeira is a modern evolution where elements from various capoeira styles and other martial arts are mixed. In Brazil, "Contemporanea" translates to "Contemporary" in English, signifying a modern or present-day approach. While this might seem innovative, it dilutes the original styles' distinct characteristics and traditions. Therefore, we do not consider it an official style, and we try to encourage each of our students to prevent practising it due to its non-formal structure and endless confusion.

Why We Don't Practice Contemporanea

At Capoeira Resistencia, Marlborough, we firmly believe in preserving the purity of traditional capoeira styles. Here’s why:

1. Respect for Tradition: Each capoeira style has a rich history and a set of rules that define its practice. Mixing styles without respecting these boundaries erodes Capoeira's cultural and historical significance.

2. Preservation of Essence: The essence of capoeira lies in its diversity. Angola and Regional have unique philosophies, movements, and music that must be preserved to maintain their original forms. Contemporanea overlooks these nuances, leading to a loss of identity.

3. Discipline and Structure: Practicing capoeira requires discipline. Each style has its structure; adhering to it is essential for mastering the art. Contemporanea's free-form approach leads to confusion, lack of knowledge, and focus.


A few Examples of Contemporanea (behaviour):

X Clapping while playing Angola.
X Chamadas and Passada de pernas / Tisoura sequences while playing Benguela or Regional.
X Volta ao mundo clockwise.
X Playing Angola as fast as Regional.
X Bateria with 2 Berimbaus, or 4.
X Singing Ladainhas in the middle of a roda without a previous pause to start again.
X Playing Benguela (jogo) while the Berimbau plays Angola.
X Takedowns in the middle of a Chamada.
X Wearing a Corda with coloured Capoeira pants.

X Chamada:

• Calling or answering the chamada while playing other styles outside Angola.

• Attacking in the middle of the ritual.

• Doing more or less (than 3) back and forth ‘passeios’
  
  
  Can One Practice Multiple Styles?

Absolutely! You can play Angola, Regional, Benguela, Apanha Laranja, Iuna, etc...
The key is to respect each style's rules, structure, and traditions without mixing them.
For instance:

- Playing Angola: The Bateria (Orchestra) plays specific rhythms for Angola. The Gunga plays Angola, the Medio plays Sao Bento Pequeno, and the Viola can play Sao Bento Grande de Angola and variations alongside Reco-reco, Agogo, and Atabaque.
The movements are strategic and close to the ground. Many "marking" steps are taken in all directions, covering the entire circle to connect and challenge the opponent physically and spiritually.

Switching to Regional: Players must adopt the faster, more acrobatic movements characteristic of this style when switching to a regional game. The music changes, and sequences can become more prominent.

Respecting Other Groups and their rules/rituals

In capoeira, respect extends beyond one's group. When participating in a roda organized by another group or in a street roda, respecting and following their rules and traditions is crucial, even if they differ from your preferences. This mutual respect ensures the preservation of each style's uniqueness and fosters community and understanding among capoeiristas.

Important:  Joining events and classes from different groups is strictly forbidden unless permission from the group leader has been given.

As Capoeiristas, we aim to learn all the traditional styles of Capoeira while moving to the rhythm of the Berimbau.
We do not identify solely as Regional or Angoleiros; instead, we proudly embrace the title of CAPOEIRISTAS.

Capoeira Resistencia is dedicated to upholding and respecting the traditional styles of Capoeira. Our commitment to preserving the integrity of these styles ensures that future generations can experience the true essence of Capoeira.

Join us in celebrating and preserving the traditions of capoeira, and let’s keep the spirit of this beautiful art form alive and thriving!