Atabaque
Atabaque
A tall hand drum of African origin. In the capoeira roda it holds the basic rhythm together with the berimbau and pandeiro.
Quick Facts
Definition
The atabaque is a tall wooden drum with a skin head, played by hand. It comes from African traditions and in Brazil is also used in candomblé religious ceremonies. In the capoeira roda it belongs to the bateria accompaniment with the berimbau and pandeiro, in places also the agogô and reco-reco. It holds the basic rhythm and supports the singing and the circle's energy. The atabaque player follows the rhythm set by the berimbau.
Relations to other terms
See also
A single-string musical bow with a gourd, the main instrument of capoeira. Its rhythm (toque) determines what game the players in the roda play.
RodaRodaA circle of players and musicians within which capoeira is played. Music, singing and clapping set the rhythm and character of the game.