Capoeira Contemporanea

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Capoeira Contemporanea

Capoeira Contemporânea the dynamic form

Capoeira Contemporânea, also known as Contemporary Capoeira, is a modern interpretation and evolution of the traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art of Capoeira. It represents a fusion of the traditional elements of Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional, while also incorporating influences from other martial arts, dance styles, and contemporary movements.

Capoeira Contemporânea emerged in the latter part of the 20th century as Capoeira practitioners began to explore new possibilities and expand the boundaries of the art form. It embraces creativity, individual expression, and innovation while still maintaining the fundamental principles and techniques of Capoeira.

Capoeira Contemporânea has gained popularity both in Brazil and internationally, attracting practitioners and enthusiasts who appreciate its dynamic and contemporary approach to Capoeira. While it may differ in style and aesthetics from the traditional forms, it continues to honour the rich history and cultural roots of Capoeira while pushing the boundaries of the art form in new and exciting ways.

 

How Capoeira Contemporânea differs from Angola and Regional

Often, Angola and Regional are distinct styles. Anything that does not fall into these two categories is considered Contemporânea. Some Contemporânea groups attempt to merge elements of Angola and Regional into a single style, while others practice each style separately depending on the rhythm played by the bateria.

To be considered a Regional school, schools should teach in the stylistic manner of Mestre Bimba. Due to this reason, the majority of schools today fall into either the Angola or Contemporânea category.

Contemporary Capoeira emerged during the 1970s, combining elements from the two previous styles. It incorporates Angola's characteristic elements such as acrobatics and theatricality, along with Regional's agility and precision of movements.

Traditionalists argue that true Regional is taught using Mestre Bimba's methods, including the Sequencias de Bimba and the Cintura Desprezada. True Regional also employs a type of Bateria known as a Charanga, consisting of two Pandeiros and one Berimbau. Anything beyond that is considered not pure Regional. However, in reality, the lines between styles can be more ambiguous. Nonetheless, a Charanga without additional instruments serves as a good indicator for a group aspiring to maintain a traditional Regional style.

In Capoeira Contemporânea, practitioners often incorporate acrobatics, complex kicks, and dynamic movements into their gameplay. It may also involve elements of breakdancing, hip-hop, and other dance forms, giving it a more contemporary and eclectic style.

One of the key features of Capoeira Contemporânea is its emphasis on musicality and rhythm. The music played during the practice of Capoeira Contemporânea can vary, including traditional Capoeira instruments as well as modern electronic beats or fusion music.

Another notable aspect of Capoeira Contemporânea is its focus on fluid transitions between movements, incorporating both ground and aerial techniques. It encourages improvisation, personal expression, and a freer exchange of movements between practitioners.

 

Conclusion

Capoeira Contemporânea is a modern interpretation and fusion of traditional Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional. It emerged in the late 20th century, allowing practitioners to explore new possibilities while maintaining the fundamental principles of Capoeira. This dynamic form has gained popularity worldwide, attracting enthusiasts who appreciate its contemporary approach. Capoeira Contemporânea differs from Angola and Regional, with some groups merging elements of both styles while others practice them separately. It incorporates acrobatics, complex kicks, and fluid transitions, often drawing influences from breakdancing and other dance forms. Musicality and rhythm play a significant role, with diverse music choices ranging from traditional instruments to modern beats.

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