Learn to Build Your Own Berimbau with Affordable Materials
The journey to build your own berimbau, a musical instrument with your own hands, is a unique experience.
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It connects you not only with the music, but also with the history and tradition behind it.
The berimbau is a string percussion instrument, consisting of a wooden bow (verga), a gourd and a stick.
The verga is the soul of the berimbau, and for it, you will need a flexible type of wood.
Finding the ideal wood is the first step. Traditionally, beriba wood is used, but you can substitute it with other flexible woods, such as bamboo or canela-de-ema.
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The gourd, which serves as a sounding board, is the component that creates the sound. If you can't find a gourd, try a large dried coconut, a bitter melon, or a gourd.
The stick is the stick that strikes the string. You can make it from a piece of ironwood, or even a kite stick, which is easily found in craft stores.
Assembling the Structure: The Yard and the Wire
The berimbau's wire, called "steel wire" or "cord," is what produces the sound. Car tire wire, stainless steel wire, or guitar wire are the best options.
To attach the wire to the spar, drill holes in the ends. The tension of the wire determines the pitch of the sound.
The Caxixi, a small basket filled with seeds, is optional but essential for the rhythm. If you prefer, make your own caxixi with a small gourd and coconut seeds.
Assembling the berimbau requires patience and precision, but the satisfaction of playing your own creation is unparalleled. The berimbau is like a one-instrument orchestra.
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The Creative Construction Process
The first step is to sand the rod, leaving it smooth and free of splinters. Then, drill holes in the rod at the ends.
Then, attach the gourd to the wicker, about 1/3 of the way up from the base. Use string or thin steel wire to secure the gourd.
Now, attach the wire to the rod, passing it through the holes and pulling it taut. The tension of the wire determines the tone of your berimbau.
A well-assembled berimbau is the foundation for a harmonious sound. The sound of a berimbau is directly linked to the quality of the materials and the assembly technique.
To build a musical instrument, you need to connect with the materials, as if you were sculpting a work of art.
It's like a carpenter who turns a piece of wood into an elegant chair.
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Tuning and Playing Your Berimbau
Tuning the berimbau is simple, but requires practice. Tune the string and wire for a deep sound.
The berimbau comes in three types: Gunga (low), Médio (medium), and Viola (high). The difference between them is the size of the gourd and the thickness of the wire.
The following table presents the different types of berimbau and their characteristics.
++ To make the berimbau you will need the following materials:
| Type of Berimbau | Features | Use in the Capoeira Circle |
| Gunga | Larger gourd and wire, low sound | Sets the rhythm and cadence |
| Average | Medium gourd and wire, medium sound | Keep the main rhythm |
| Viola | Smallest gourd and wire, high-pitched sound | Makes the flourishes and improvisations |
Tuning is one of the most important parts of the process. The sound of the berimbau is the essence of capoeira; it sets the rhythm and energy of the roda.
Accessories and Finishing
The Caxixi is the accessory that completes the berimbau. To make your own, take a small gourd and fill it with seeds.
The berimbau stick is called a "wicker stick" or "vareta." You can use a branch from an aroeira tree.
The doubloon, or coin, is used to alter the sound of the wire. Use a copper doubloon or a smooth stone.
Building a berimbau is a work of art and patience. If you dedicate yourself to build your own berimbau, the result is a masterpiece.
According to the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN), the berimbau is an extremely important instrument for Brazilian culture.
In 2014, capoeira and the berimbau were recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
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Why build your own berimbau?
The experience of build your own berimbau It's a way to connect with tradition and ancestry. It's a process of learning and self-discovery.
Imagine the satisfaction of playing an instrument you built yourself. It's as if your energy and soul are present in every note.
The berimbau is an instrument with a soul. Every sound it produces is an expression of feelings.
Build your own berimbau it is an act of cultural resistance
Building a berimbau with accessible materials is a way to democratize access to culture. It's a way to keep the capoeira tradition alive.
The berimbau is a symbol of resistance and freedom. It connects us with the history of slavery and the struggle for freedom.
Capoeira, and the berimbau, is an art form that unites us, regardless of our origins. Build your own berimbau is a journey of connection and creativity.
Have you ever imagined how rewarding it would be to have an instrument made by yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal wood for the berimbau's verga?
Beriba wood is the most commonly used, but you can substitute it with other flexible woods, such as bamboo.
Where can I find the wire for the berimbau?
Car tire wire is a great option, but you can also use stainless steel wire.
How to tune the berimbau?
Tuning is done with the dobão, which must be pressed against the wire to change the sound.
Conclusion
Build your own berimbau is more than just a craft project.
It's an immersion into the rich history of Afro-Brazilian culture. By creating this instrument, you not only produce music but also become a guardian of a centuries-old tradition.
The journey, from the search for materials to the first sound produced, is a celebration of creativity, patience and connection with our roots.
This is an invitation for you to touch your own story.
