I have been focusing recently on improving my ability to play and understand the berimbau. I have learned two toques, or rhythms, to a point where I can play them well enough. However, I want to slide into the rhythm when playing. I want to allow the sound of the berimbau to overcome my senses and project energy into the roda. To do that, I need to understand the instrument and understand music.

That is part of the beauty of capoeira. To be a capoeirista requires much more than physical capability. It is dedication to something. It takes time to learn the moves and how to play and interact with others. And it also takes time to learn how to play the instruments, especially the berimbau. There is something mystical about its impreciseness. It invites you to play with it and its many subtle variations of sound. The cabaça may be a bit too high or the arame might be a bit too tight. Only striking the arame with the baqueta will tell you if it sounds right. One must play it constantly to find the right balance that allows you to swing into an expression of self that is so pure and simple that it can be overwhelming at times.

The sounds of the berimbau are conducive to meditation. The constant rhythm can lull you into a trance as you focus on playing and let your mind wander into spirit of this thing you are manipulating with your hands. I always wanted to learn how to play bass, thanks to Justin Chancellor of Tool, but what we want and what we need are two different things. I have found what I need and I will focus on it. A simple on-stringed musical bow can become a gateway to a higher consciousness and communion with the Infinite One, if you let it.