Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.0 (1)
$199.99
Amazon
3.0 (25)
$221.52
Thomann
4.2 (9)
$184.00 $183.00 $1.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£185.00

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Berimbau". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover the captivating rhythms of Brazil with the Berimbau, a traditional instrument that lies at the heart of capoeira, the renowned Afro-Brazilian martial arts dance. This unique stringed instrument is more than just a musical tool; it's a cultural emblem, weaving the rich tapestry of folk and world music. Crafted with a delicate balance of a wooden bow, a resonant gourd, and a steel string, the Berimbau produces a mesmerizing range of sounds that oscillate between deep, resonant tones and sharp, striking notes.

In the hands of a skilled musician, the Berimbau becomes an expressive voice, capable of dynamic pitch modulation and rhythm changes. The magic lies in the interaction between the berimbau's components—a thin striker and a caxixi (small basket rattle) in the right hand, while the left hand manipulates the string tension and the resonant gourd. The instrument is played by moving it towards and away from the body, allowing the gourd to create a distinctive wah-wah effect that enhances its rich tonal palette.

Perfect for both seasoned musicians and newcomers eager to explore world music, the Berimbau invites you to experience the vibrant, rhythmic energy of capoeira and beyond.

Key Features:

  • Traditional instrument essential for Brazilian capoeira music
  • Composed of a wooden bow, steel string, resonant gourd, thin striker, and caxixi
  • Produces a unique, dynamic range of tones and rhythms
  • Capable of creating captivating wah-wah effects through movement
  • Ideal for musicians interested in folk and world instruments

Product specs

Brand Mid-East
Model BRSSPL 60" Brazilian Large-Gourd Berimbau
Finish Painted Spirals
Year 2010s

FAQs

What is the berimbau primarily used for in music?

The berimbau is primarily used to accompany the Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira, providing rhythmic and melodic structure to the practice.

What materials are included with the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau?

The Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau comes with a small caxixi, a metal plate, a wooden stick, and a carrying bag for convenience.

How does the painted spirals finish affect the berimbau's performance?

The painted spirals finish on the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau is primarily decorative and does not affect the instrument's acoustic performance.

Is the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau is suitable for beginners, offering a traditional design that helps new players learn the basics of playing the berimbau.

What is the significance of the large gourd in the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau?

The large gourd in the Mid-East BRSSPL 60" Berimbau acts as a resonator, amplifying the sound produced by the string and contributing to its distinctive tone.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Berimbau.

Build quality

  • Berimbaus made of beriba wood and Brazilian-grown cabeca are noted for their authenticity and quality.

    Source
  • Some users string the berimbau and keep it visible to encourage practice, though it's noted this might not be ideal for the instrument's longevity.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Essential components include a 150cm verga, a cabesca, and a dobrão, which can be a heavy coin or skimming stone for traditional sound.

    Source
  • Beginners are advised to rest the berimbau between their legs or on their leg when sitting to avoid excessive pinky strain and focus on learning toques.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have reported satisfaction after playing for a month, with experienced players acknowledging the instrument's quality.

    Source
  • Beginners often experience pinky discomfort, likened to guitarists' initial fingertip pain, but it diminishes with practice and proper technique.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • In Southeast Asia, various local experts and mestres are recommended for purchasing or custom-making berimbaus.

    Source
  • Practicing carrying bags with the pinky is suggested to strengthen it outside of playing sessions, aiding in berimbau handling.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Effective berimbau playing involves a whipping wrist motion for faster play and moving the instrument for different tonal effects: forward for high notes, up for low, and back for buzzing.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rob Scallon uses Berimbau

Rob Scallon

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Rob is seen throughout the whole video with a berimbau.

See how Max Cavalera uses Berimbau

Max Cavalera

Singer, Guitarist

Sepultura

...
Verified via YouTube

At the start of the video, Max is playing a berimbau. A Brazilian, originally African, single-string precussion instrument.

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