Customer Reviews

Capoeira: A Brazilian Art Form: History, Philosophy, and Practice

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It's a good thing that among the few books in english about capoeira that we have this book! If you're looking to learn capoeira techniques or tricks, this is not the book for you. If you want to learn the history, philosophy and cultural background of this amazing art look no further. Part history book, part dreamlike and ludic personal travel log on the journey down the path of capoeira, this book does the near impossible and captures the beauty, playfulness and wisdom of capoeira and puts in on the written page. If you're even slightly interested in the art of capoeira, buy this book...

A Great book about the history and and philosophy of Capoeira. When I saw that Bira was the Author I had to get it (He was my Mestre, Mestre Acordeon). If you want a book with lots of pictures of moves and stuff, look elsewhere. If you want to know more then just the physical movements I strongly recommend this book.

The book Capoeira: A Brazilian Art Form was not only well-written but was interesting as well. This book educates you about the history of capoeira, capoeira practitioners, and even a short summary of how Mestre Acordeon was introduced to the art of capoeira. I would highly reccomend this book to capoeiristas, as it was very helpful to me. Axé.

An excellent choice for anyone interested in capoeira. Written by a "mestre" and teacher, it covers all the basics: the history of the art, its African origins, its underlying philosophy, and its various steps and techniques. Drawings and pictures show a variety of movement and positions, from kicks and handstands to cartwheels and spins. Plus, it includes the lyrios to several popular capoeira songs. A truly concise and informative volume, especially for those first learning about this exciting style.

Mestre Acordeon's book has long been praised for its clear writing, for his thoughtful coverage of the history, philosophy, and artistic traditions surrounding this art-form. Other reviewers (see below) have noted that the book was among the first in English to introduce readers to these aspects of Capoeira, while also offering a glimpse into this one mestre's personal and life-long journey. Having assigned his book to students (both graduate and undergraduate alike), I have had ample opportunity to hear students' glowing reviews: most of these students had never heard of Capoeira, nor even seen it played, before having read his work. In retrospect, they (and I, too) consider this book an excellent way to delve into the topic. While there's recently been a flurry of new scholarship on Capoeira (at least 3 books in English have come out in 2005) that matches Capoeira's growing influence around the globe, Acordeon's book remains one of the best places to start one's exploration. Axe ASCAB!

This is a great book for anyone interested in Capoeira. The author is one of the first Capoeira masters to bring the art to the United States, and he presents a complete look at the history, foundations, philosophy, culture, and feel of Capoeira. The only shortcoming I have found is that specific techniques are not presented in-depth, but if you are interested in learning Capoeira you probably will want to study with a teacher anyway! It makes a great companion to classes, or it is great reading just by itself.

Provides a vivid, intriguing intro & history of this playful, dancelike martial art & the music it's traditionally performed to. I was fascinated by the Afro-Brazilian origins of the art (starting in 17th-cent. Brazil), and its ties to samba and other Afro-Brazilian art forms. The content ranges from social history to the author's vividly personal memories of/encounters with this century's major figures in capoeira. (The author himself is a renowned, world-class capoeira master.) Recommended for almost anyone (not only martial artists or Brazilophies)--those interested in cultural arts, music, dance, the African diaspora, or just a lively, interesting read!

Mestre Acordeon takes you on a journey through capoeira, sharing his experiences and inviting the reader to use his imagination.
A truely inspirational piece from a truely inspirational master.

Whether you're just thinking about getting into capoeira, or you've been in it for a while and would like to learn more about the culture of capoeira, this book is great. This book helps the reader to understand the "insides" of the art.

Amazing book, absolutely amazing. It is not for the person wanting to learn how to do capoeira, but for anyone, beginner or master, who wants to read a great history and personal journey.
It even travels into the spiritual, deeper significance of capoeira.
GREAT BOOK.