TRADITIONAL AND ONDAS ETIQUETTES

These are not all the "guidelines." PLEASE pay attention to others for more subtle traditions, for many of them are "unwritten" and are only a problem when they appear in the roda. You must be receptive to criticism when learning some of these traditional ways. THIS IS NOT WRITTEN IN STONE. This is to serve as a guide to you - a checklist of behaviors that are considered appropriate in the larger commmunity of Capoeira and in this school.

MUSIC AND RODA

1. Know the difference between, and acknowledge the different rhythms and types of Songs
2. Only experienced students should play the instruments during demonstration:  ask your orientation leader, mentor or instructor if you are ready to perform.
3. The GUNGA is the lead Berimbau – it sets the tone and rhythm for the game. The medio can also lead pending the arrangement
4. The person playing the Berimbau Gunga is the one in control.  The Gunga must be in the hands of an Ondas Graduado or older during official rodas.
5. Pass one instrument at a time - IN BETWEEN GAMES.
6. Sing and clap WITH ENERGY in the roda... EXCEPTIONS:  No Clapping during Angola, and No clapping and singing during IUNA and AMAZONAS..  Only Formados can play Iuna at formal "open" events.  Monitores will be informed of when they can join.  AMAZONAS is for intermediate students and higher.
7. Never put down an instrument while the roda is in progress. It must be passed on...
8. Our bataria consists of three berimbaus (Gunga, Medio, Viola,), 2 pandeiros, 1 atabaque, 1 agogo bell (and 1 reco reco for Angola rodas...)
9. Always be aware in the roda and maintain the shape of the roda
10. Only an instructor (or leader) can stop the music in the roda
11. Always Squat at the Boca da Roda (entrance where the instruments are) before entering the roda… and ask permission from the leader to enter the roda
12. Always shake hands prior to starting a game, and shake hands whenever possible after a game with the other capoeirista. Especially when someone gets hurt in the roda.
13. Learn how to buy the game and who you can cut out of the roda.  When in doubt, you can buy out 1 rank above yours
14. QUESTIONS should be asked after the roda...

ONDAS BASIC REGULATIONS

1. If you are late… you are to warm up on the side of the class and wait for acknowledgement from the instructor or assistants before entering class
2. Greet others when at school – COMMON COURTESY!!
3. Know your universal creed and the ten principles
4. You must wear your uniform to class including corda, abadas and Tshirt.  Your instructor will let you know of the "dress down day."  Dress down day means you can wear whatever colors, but must be capoeira related and from any other group.  HOWEVER, you can only wear your cord with the group's abadas. 
5. Address students by their Capoeira Name
6. Never fight during demonstrations. It is best to demonstrate by playing Benguela and Sao Bento Grande/Pequeno in a cooperative manner.
7. Support your group through: Demonstrations, Purchasing equipment, Attending events, Being the best student you can be - Train hard – 100%, NO MATTER WHAT at all times.