The music in Capoeira is very important for the development of a good fighting rhythm, timing and concentration. Today, the berimbau is essential during a roda (circular physical space within which the fight-games are played). The toque (the different rhythms produced by the berimbau’s sounds) establishes the rhythm and style of the game. It dictates its speed and nature: whether it should be played more aggressively or more playfully, whether the game should be treacherous or harmonious. During training sessions, the music helps the students develop physically while enhancing their awareness of the philosophical aspects of the art.

In the earliest days, though, Capoeira was accompanied only by the atabaque, hand-clapping and singing. Not only the berimbau has become indispensable, but also, other instruments have been incorporated into Capoeira music. These instruments include the caxixi, the pandeiro, the agogô, the reco-reco, and the triângulo among a few others not as commonly present in the rodas

Each rhythm holds a different meaning within the games. One rhythm alerts the capoeiras against the approaching police or reinforcement authorities, while another tells a story from the past. Moreover, many songs are sung with the intent of taunting the players and stimulating the game. The energy shared among capoeiras inside the roda and the people clapping their hands and singing outside is often continuous and intense.

The lyrics frequently encompass themes such as superstitions, catholic or African saints, geographic locations, historical events, intense life experiences, and praise to God. The lyrics tent to be very symbolic and full of codes, usually understood only by the pupils of the master leading the song.
In a roda, the rhythm usually begins slow and builds up progressively into an intense climax. Then, it calms back down and allows room for a new cycle to restart the growth. A ladainha starts the roda. It is a song that will gather the attention and focus of the capoeiras who are about to join the upcoming game. The ladainha, usually tells a story from the past. During its words, two capoeiras bow by the foot of the berimbau and wait the moment whence the first game starts. The canto de entrada (entrance song) follows the ladainha and praises God and the old masters. At the end of the canto de entrada, the two capoeiras greet one another and leave for the center or the roda and start the game. At this point, the music takes the form of corridos, songs that bring the rhythm to a faster pace and creates more and more tension in the game. A dialogue between the lead singer and chorus plus a rotation of players carries the game onto the cantigas de despedida e agradecimento (farewell and thanksgiving songs). This is the most intense moment of the game where capoeiras go through quick rotations in and out of the roda as the game prepares to end and maybe restart again with a slower toque.