Capoeira Filhos da Bahia Grading Philosophy

A Message from Mestre Val Boa Morte

Capoeira Filhos da Bahia uses NATURE as it’s primary reference to show the evolution of the Capoeira student. Taking inspiration from the Natural order of growth in fruit, vegetation & the Elements of Nature; the colours used in the Filhos da Bahia Grading System reflect the growth and maturation process in Nature & our Environment.

Cordel or Coloured belts represent the Grade of the Capoeira student. They are used to symbolise the student’s level of skill, fitness, agility, improvement, understanding of the game and elements of Capoeira. The various colours show the Degree of Mastership attained by the student, and their level of achievement along the Capoeira Path.

Over the years, the Capoeira Filhos da Bahia’s Grading system has been altered considerably. Attaining a certain level or Cordel will depend on one’s commitment to classes and regular training.  It is important to remember that Capoeiristas in Australia are being graded and ranked by the same system as that used in countries such as Brazil and USA, where Capoeiristas in these countries are known to undergo vigorous training sessions at least three to four times a week. Capoeira is a major part of their lives; sometimes becoming their Life’s focus. Here in Australia, however, Capoeiristas tend to take a rather carefree attitude and blasé approach towards their Capoeira training; while some may train three times a week, others – only once a fortnight! The new Grading system is designed to encourage Capoeiristas to adopt a more serious and dedicated attitude towards learning and understanding Capoeira, as they would any other course of education in Life, in which they hope to succeed.

No one becomes a ‘Mestre de Capoeira’ – Master of Capoeira overnight; it takes time and perseverance to complete all of the compulsory phases.  Firstly, it is necessary that the student finds a friend in their Mestre and feels comfortable with him/her in order to be fully confident with the movements taught. In the beginning, there are a myriad of obstacles that the student will face and need to overcome. Determination, commitment, always trying their best, challenging themselves and learning from their mistakes all assist the student greatly in doing this.

Each year, Capoeira Filhos da Bahia holds a week long Capoeira Festival involving workshops by visiting Masters and Teachers, public demonstrations, Rodas and a party to celebrate the year’s achievements, joined by distinguished Masters from overseas & Capoeira groups from around Australia.

The Annual Event which is an International Encounter is the ultimate offering of a Mestre to his students in sharing and particpating in the experience of the combined energy of CAPOEIRA! The Batizado is an integral part of training at Capoeira Filhos da Bahia school. All CFdB students without exception are expected to participate in this Annual Event. 

– Mestre Val Boa Morte