Was gonna write a quick post about floreios to fully address KY's qs in the comment to the earlier blog post. But a quick check with Mestre Google yielded the following blog post that sums up what floreios are all about, the benefits etc much much better than i cld've ever done.
The blog also contains lotsa good capoeira exercises (some of you may remember we did the Horse Walk, Lizard Walk etc... last yr. Those were inspired by his blog).
So, without further ado, here's the link to the post: "The Floreio Art"
If you're like me and like it enough - drop by a lil' bit earlier on Sunday for Aliff's floreio session. Enjoy!
-bom garoto
Freedom to Express, Freedom to Move, Freedom to be Ourselves. Axé Capoeira
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
NUS Capoeira Upcoming Activities
Hey guys,
Lots of activities coming up soon
1) Our very own Capoeira NUS Day Retreat to Pulau Ubin
29/1/2011 Saturday
Itinerary courtesy of Rosinha:
Meeting Time & Place:
whichever is more convenient,
- 9am (Outram Park MRT), or
- 10am (Tanah Merah MRT)
Itinerary
- head to Pulau Ubin, rent a bicycle, and explore the island!
- hopefully by 5pm (depending on how much fun we have & how our capoeira timing might work that day), we will head to Angeline's place for a BBQ!
Food:
Halal. We've also ordered some vegetarian food, so do not fret!
Don't forget to bring:
- umbrella (just in case!)
- extra clothes & towel
- waterbottle
- extra pocket money in case you might want to eat along the way!
- and of course, positive energy and axe!
- ID to rent the bike
If you have any queries, please contact:
Van (82355 988) and Liani (8317 0059)
Also, please remember to confirm if you are going (and where you would like to meet) to either one of us by this Wednesday night.
2) Monthly Roda & Pre Roda Floeiros session by Aliff at Scape
30th January 2011, Sunday @ SCAPE
Hey guys!
3) Lou Yu Sheng @ NUS or Chinese Raw Fish & Fish Maw prosperity luck producing salad for all those who need a translation After our training on Tuesday, 1/2/2011
4) Helping out @ an orphanage, Faizal will update us about this up coming event but it is our club's CIP event, in short we are gonna bring Fun, Laughter, Peace, Joy and most importantly AXE to the people.
Happy lunar new year 恭喜发财, 步步高升 or in Portuguese: Avante e para cima!
Salve
~Kelvin
Lots of activities coming up soon
1) Our very own Capoeira NUS Day Retreat to Pulau Ubin
29/1/2011 Saturday
Itinerary courtesy of Rosinha:
Meeting Time & Place:
whichever is more convenient,
- 9am (Outram Park MRT), or
- 10am (Tanah Merah MRT)
Itinerary
- head to Pulau Ubin, rent a bicycle, and explore the island!
- hopefully by 5pm (depending on how much fun we have & how our capoeira timing might work that day), we will head to Angeline's place for a BBQ!
Food:
Halal. We've also ordered some vegetarian food, so do not fret!
Don't forget to bring:
- umbrella (just in case!)
- extra clothes & towel
- waterbottle
- extra pocket money in case you might want to eat along the way!
- and of course, positive energy and axe!
- ID to rent the bike
If you have any queries, please contact:
Van (82355 988) and Liani (8317 0059)
Also, please remember to confirm if you are going (and where you would like to meet) to either one of us by this Wednesday night.
2) Monthly Roda & Pre Roda Floeiros session by Aliff at Scape
30th January 2011, Sunday @ SCAPE
Hey guys!
Its our time of the month again! Time to put on your whites for the time of the month! This sunday, 30th January at SCAPE, same spot, same place.
By the way, 1 hour before the session there will be a floreio session by Alif!
Time for Floreios: 330pm - 430pm
TIme for Roda : 430pm - 630pm
3) Lou Yu Sheng @ NUS or Chinese Raw Fish & Fish Maw prosperity luck producing salad for all those who need a translation After our training on Tuesday, 1/2/2011
4) Helping out @ an orphanage, Faizal will update us about this up coming event but it is our club's CIP event, in short we are gonna bring Fun, Laughter, Peace, Joy and most importantly AXE to the people.
Happy lunar new year 恭喜发财, 步步高升 or in Portuguese: Avante e para cima!
Salve
~Kelvin
Monday, January 24, 2011
It's that time of the month!
..nope, am not talking about mass-PMS ><..
Monthly roda, yay! And I quote:
"This sunday, 30th January at SCAPE, same spot, same place.
"This sunday, 30th January at SCAPE, same spot, same place.
By the way, 1 hour before the session there will be a floreio session by Alif!
Time for Floreios: 330pm - 430pm
TIme for Roda : 430pm - 630pm
Love Love
TK "
If any new member happens to read this, monthly roda is just like what Arnold said, the usual axe multiplied by 10! It might even be life-changing, camaradas! =D
shiela *I should ask someone else to post something soon else I'll be accused of hogging the blog >< *
If any new member happens to read this, monthly roda is just like what Arnold said, the usual axe multiplied by 10! It might even be life-changing, camaradas! =D
shiela *I should ask someone else to post something soon else I'll be accused of hogging the blog >< *
The Heartbeat of the Roda
Hi everyone!
Guess which instrument I think is the heartbeart of the roda? Yep, it's the atabaque alright, that solid, dignified instrument so dear to my heart =D
For an introduction to the instrument and basic tips on playing it, check out this article written by our own senior, Pek a.k.a Cabure: http://nuscapoeira.blogspot.com/2008/08/pup-tum.html
Aaaanyway, seems to me that the atabaque is somewhat neglected at times because, of course, everyone bows to the almighty berimbau ;p No complaints in that, but the more I delve into the history and variations, the more fascination I feel for the atabaque.
For one, there is actually a debate on whether the berimbau was used first in the roda, or was it percussion instruments rather similar to the atabaque? Popular notion holds that the berimbau came in first, also bearing in mind that it is much lighter and more portable, hence easier to bring around for rodas. However, looking at the influences surrounding capoeira, in candomble actually there are 3 berimbaus being used. (By the way, just like there are 'gunga', 'medio' and 'viola' for different tone setting of the berimbau, the low tone atabaque is called 'rum', and the high tone called 'le'. The middle tone, 'rumpi', is never used in a roda.)
A video clip showing how an atabaque duet can be:
And another one to show the candomble rhythm:
Ow and the last bit of interesting information... Atabaque and berimbau toques are usually played 4:4 (the rhythm contained in a bar made of 4 beats.. If you really wanna know just ask me next practice), but there is one toque that uses 6:8 beats, which is called toque Cavalaria.. and it is used.. to warn the capoeiristas that the police are approaching!! =D
Hope that can entertain away a bit of the Monday blues! =)
shiela
Guess which instrument I think is the heartbeart of the roda? Yep, it's the atabaque alright, that solid, dignified instrument so dear to my heart =D
For an introduction to the instrument and basic tips on playing it, check out this article written by our own senior, Pek a.k.a Cabure: http://nuscapoeira.blogspot.com/2008/08/pup-tum.html
Aaaanyway, seems to me that the atabaque is somewhat neglected at times because, of course, everyone bows to the almighty berimbau ;p No complaints in that, but the more I delve into the history and variations, the more fascination I feel for the atabaque.
For one, there is actually a debate on whether the berimbau was used first in the roda, or was it percussion instruments rather similar to the atabaque? Popular notion holds that the berimbau came in first, also bearing in mind that it is much lighter and more portable, hence easier to bring around for rodas. However, looking at the influences surrounding capoeira, in candomble actually there are 3 berimbaus being used. (By the way, just like there are 'gunga', 'medio' and 'viola' for different tone setting of the berimbau, the low tone atabaque is called 'rum', and the high tone called 'le'. The middle tone, 'rumpi', is never used in a roda.)
A video clip showing how an atabaque duet can be:
And another one to show the candomble rhythm:
Ow and the last bit of interesting information... Atabaque and berimbau toques are usually played 4:4 (the rhythm contained in a bar made of 4 beats.. If you really wanna know just ask me next practice), but there is one toque that uses 6:8 beats, which is called toque Cavalaria.. and it is used.. to warn the capoeiristas that the police are approaching!! =D
Hope that can entertain away a bit of the Monday blues! =)
shiela
Friday, January 21, 2011
On Injuries (Part 1)
Well, since the club started the year with 2 head injuries, 1 ankle injury, 1 leg injury and broken finger... and reflecting back on how ankle injuries seem to be the trend last year.. not to mention Sapo's repetitive back injury and Morcego's knee.. I think we need a series of posts on injuries, prevention, rehabilitation etc so everyone can benefit. (Of course my sources will mostly come form the net and as such take it with a pinch of salt.. I'll try to ask Alif to comment from time to time.)
The first post in the series.. is inspired by dear Charlotte looking really sad when she had to just sit on the side watching us train yesterday, and how Kelvin insisted on training but had to be careful not to exert his right ankle..
Oftentimes, capoeiristas train when they are injured or when they have not recovered fully. I am guilty of this too (2 counts of ankle sprain last year), because it's just sooooo miserable watching your camaradas do the moves and not be able to do anything, and you're afraid of de-conditioning (where you lose a significant amount of your aerobic and muscle abilities after not training for some time.. more on that in next posts), the music is calling you, and besides we're still young, and plus it's supposed to be mind over matter, right?
Well,a bit of patience might really help in the long term. I don't exactly know the statistics but I went to google 'quit capoeira because of injury' and the things that came up were scary enough >< I personally know several people who had to quit gymnastics, dance, capoeira because of injuries and really, the common line of thought is : "What could I have done better or differently so that I can still have dance/ gymnastics/capoeira in my life?" I haven't had any serious injuries but I think if I do and I have to stay off capoeira for some months.. the thought of having to quit capoeira if I don't take proper care is probably the only one that can keep me from getting 'itchy'!
Alif said once, "the faster you peak, the faster you plateau and drop.. the slower you peak, the slower the drop also..." .. which reminds me of what my friend told me about 'shooting stars' - people who shine so brilliantly just for awhile, but disappears after that.. tragic, I say!
So for those who are recovering now and wanting to push their limits, hey sure, but also chill a bit, listen to your body, and remember capoeira is a lifelong love affair.. you have time =)
Much love and concern,
Shiela
The first post in the series.. is inspired by dear Charlotte looking really sad when she had to just sit on the side watching us train yesterday, and how Kelvin insisted on training but had to be careful not to exert his right ankle..
Oftentimes, capoeiristas train when they are injured or when they have not recovered fully. I am guilty of this too (2 counts of ankle sprain last year), because it's just sooooo miserable watching your camaradas do the moves and not be able to do anything, and you're afraid of de-conditioning (where you lose a significant amount of your aerobic and muscle abilities after not training for some time.. more on that in next posts), the music is calling you, and besides we're still young, and plus it's supposed to be mind over matter, right?
Well,a bit of patience might really help in the long term. I don't exactly know the statistics but I went to google 'quit capoeira because of injury' and the things that came up were scary enough >< I personally know several people who had to quit gymnastics, dance, capoeira because of injuries and really, the common line of thought is : "What could I have done better or differently so that I can still have dance/ gymnastics/capoeira in my life?" I haven't had any serious injuries but I think if I do and I have to stay off capoeira for some months.. the thought of having to quit capoeira if I don't take proper care is probably the only one that can keep me from getting 'itchy'!
Alif said once, "the faster you peak, the faster you plateau and drop.. the slower you peak, the slower the drop also..." .. which reminds me of what my friend told me about 'shooting stars' - people who shine so brilliantly just for awhile, but disappears after that.. tragic, I say!
So for those who are recovering now and wanting to push their limits, hey sure, but also chill a bit, listen to your body, and remember capoeira is a lifelong love affair.. you have time =)
Much love and concern,
Shiela
Friday, January 14, 2011
XANGO!!
Well, well..finally Zambiacongo is no longer (just the name, our Mestre and the organisation structure is still the same), replaced by... Xango!!
When I got the sms from Bom Garoto, first thought was: "Xango.. sounds familiar..", second thought was: "...why Xango?" When Prof. Caracol announced the possibility of a name change during workshop, it generated a bit of a buzz.. Some of us wondered if the new name would have the same 'Ooomph!' as Zambiacongo.. In the end, Xango it is!
Here's a round-up again of "Why Xango?" for those who missed the session with Alif (and also, for posterity =D )
1. 'Xango' in capoeira was used to refer to any movement that involves back flip/ backhand spring, and when you see topless guys in white pants, doing back flip movements, the word that comes to mind would be, "Capoeira!"
(Apparently Mestre Luiz and his brother were watching an old capoeira video with this movement when he was inspired to take the name.)
Nowadays, the 'xango' movements have been divided out into more specific moves: macaquinho, macaco, salto mortal, etc.
2. Apparently though, there was a bit of a problem because Xango is also the name of an 'orisha' (spirit) in the candomble religion (the African religion brought over by slaves to Brazil.. maybe a post on that next time?) and since Mestre does not practice candomble, he does not want the group to be associated with spirits.. (Little did he know how some of NUS capoeira members love Exu.. >< ) In the end, to differentiate it, the orisha's name is spelt 'Xangô' but our group's name is 'Xango' (without the 'rooftop' on the 'o' haha..)
Coincidentally, Xangô is a protective and loving orisha who is worshiped with singing and and dancing, and the rhythm used for that is.. barravento! Which is Mestre's apelido haha.. Check out the rhythm here:
Plus! The skin color of the orisha is red, which is... Mestre's favorite color!
And there you have it.. The two definite signs that we should be called Xango =D
A bit about the deity...
Xangô was the fourth king of the Oyo people of Africa, who brought prosperity to his kingdom. He died by committing suicide and entered the pantheon of gods, becoming the Sky Father, the God of Thunder and Lightning. He is a symbol of the African resistance against European powers, and is in turn symbolized by the oshe (double-headed axe) representing swift and balanced justice. (Isn't it cool that 'Axe' is his weapon? ;p ) He rules the colour red and white. (Singapore flag yay! ;p ) Apparently also, Xangô has three wives >< (maybe the reason he committed suicide? ) He is a protector, and loves music.. He owns three Bata (double-headed drums)! And he can breathe fire from his mouth.. if that is not cool, I don't know what is!
For those who want to know more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shango
http://juicyr.blogspot.com/2009/05/xango.html
(the origin of Xangô is particularly interesting)
Que roda maravilhosa e essa
E o Xango capoeira
Em cada som, em cada toque, em cada ginga
Tem um estilo de jogo...
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Welcome Tea 2011 Sem 2
Tuesday 11th Jan & Tuesday 18th Jan 2011 Welcome Tea
Interested in picking up something new this semester? Come try out Capoeira - an afro-brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts,music, and dance. You've seen it in Ong Bak. You've seen it in Tekken. Now, we invite you to see for yourself what Capoeira is like - right here in NUS.
Absolutely no background is necessary. Just come with an open mind and we'll share with you the basics of Capoeira: starting with the ginga (basic fighting stance); followed by two kicks - the martelo and meia lua de frente; and lastly, the esquiva (dodge). At the end of the Welcome Tea, you'll get a chance to join the roda (lit: wheel) where a game of Capoeira is played and use the moves that you've learned.
The Welcome Teas will be held on Tuesday over the next two weeks and you only need to choose 1 date to attend. We look forward to seeing you there!
See you guys at the Dance Studio 7pm.
The Dance Studio is at the Sports Recreation Centre near the swimming pool above the rock climbing gym.
Interested in picking up something new this semester? Come try out Capoeira - an afro-brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts,music, and dance. You've seen it in Ong Bak. You've seen it in Tekken. Now, we invite you to see for yourself what Capoeira is like - right here in NUS.
Absolutely no background is necessary. Just come with an open mind and we'll share with you the basics of Capoeira: starting with the ginga (basic fighting stance); followed by two kicks - the martelo and meia lua de frente; and lastly, the esquiva (dodge). At the end of the Welcome Tea, you'll get a chance to join the roda (lit: wheel) where a game of Capoeira is played and use the moves that you've learned.
The Welcome Teas will be held on Tuesday over the next two weeks and you only need to choose 1 date to attend. We look forward to seeing you there!
See you guys at the Dance Studio 7pm.
The Dance Studio is at the Sports Recreation Centre near the swimming pool above the rock climbing gym.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Training on 6th Jan, 2011 (Thursday)
Hey guys we will be having training on Thursday 6th Jan, 2011 @ MPSH.
Training will start at 7pm so be early for warm up. See you guys there!
~Kelvin
Training will start at 7pm so be early for warm up. See you guys there!
~Kelvin
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Training @ SMU 4th January 2011
Happy New Year to one and all!
1st post of 2011.
We will be having training at SMU on the 4th of Jan @ SMU.
The class will be most likely led by Formado James so do come down.
Time should be evening 6.30 so do be early.
Cheers!
1st post of 2011.
We will be having training at SMU on the 4th of Jan @ SMU.
The class will be most likely led by Formado James so do come down.
Time should be evening 6.30 so do be early.
Cheers!
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