Hello everyone,

I would like to introduce you to a very special human being. This is the legendary Mestre Joao Grande.

For over 60 years, João Oliveira dos Santos, better known as Mestre João Grande, has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the rich tradition of capoeira angola. His expertise and passion for this Afro-Brazilian martial art have led him to become a Grão-Mestre (Great Master), demonstrating his deep understanding and mastery of the art form. Mestre João Grande’s journey in capoeira angola began as a student of the renowned “father of Angola”, Mestre Pastinha, under whose guidance he honed his skills and developed a profound appreciation for the cultural significance of capoeira angola.

Mestre João Grande’s influence extends far beyond Brazil, as he has played a pivotal role in spreading the practice of capoeira angola worldwide. His academy in New York City serves as a hub for individuals eager to learn from this living legend and immerse themselves in the traditions of capoeira angola. Through his dedication and unwavering commitment, Mestre João Grande has become an iconic figure in the preservation and global dissemination of this captivating martial art.

Mestre João Grande’s encounter with capoeira at a young age shaped the course of his life in profound ways. The dance, initially known to him as “the Dance of the Nagos,” held a mysterious allure that propelled him on a journey of discovery and transformation. Leaving his home at the age of ten in pursuit of this captivating art form, he embarked on a path that would lead him to the vibrant city of Salvador, renowned as the epicenter of capoeira.

Arriving in Salvador, known as the Black Rome of Brazil due to the significant cultural influence of the Yoruba people from Southwest Nigeria, Mestre João Grande finally witnessed a proper capoeira roda for the first time at Roca do Lobo. This momentous occasion exposed him to the mastery and skill of esteemed mestres such as Menino Gordo, João Pequeno, and Cobrinha Verde, further igniting his passion for the art of capoeira.

Through these experiences, Mestre João Grande’s journey intertwined with the rich tapestry of capoeira’s history and tradition, shaping him into a revered figure in the world of martial arts. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s passion. It serves as an inspiration to all who follow in his footsteps, embodying the spirit and resilience of capoeira itself.

João Grande’s journey in capoeira is an inspiring tale of determination and passion for the art. After being sent from Mestre Barbosa to João Pequeno, and then to Mestre Pastinha, João Grande found his home in Pastinha’s famous academy in the Cardeal Pequeno neighborhood of Brotas. Despite joining relatively late at the age of twenty, João Grande’s dedication knew no bounds. Balancing his studies with Mestre Pastinha and his job as a longshoreman, João Grande poured his heart and soul into capoeira. This commitment and perseverance are a testament to the timeless spirit of the art, proving that it is never too late to embark on a journey of learning and self-discovery. Even as he played after work or on his precious few days off, João Grande’s love for capoeira only grew stronger, shaping his destiny and paving the way for his influential role in the world of capoeira. His story serves as a reminder that true passion knows no age, and that the pursuit of knowledge and mastery is a lifelong endeavor worth pursuing.

Mestre João Grande eventually became such an acclaimed capoeirista that when Carybé, a painter famous for his documentation of African Culture in Bahia, chose to do studies of capoeira he chose João Grande as a model. João Grande and João Pequeno are featured in numerous films of capoeira including one in which they demonstrate the knife techniques of the art. This recognition highlights the exceptional skill and influence of Mestre João Grande in the capoeira community. His portrayal in Carybé’s works further solidifies his impact on the documentation of African culture in Bahia. Additionally, the inclusion of João Grande and João Pequeno in various capoeira films showcases their expertise and contribution to the preservation and promotion of capoeira as a traditional art form.

In 1966, the renowned capoeira master João Grande embarked on a significant journey to Senegal alongside Mestre Pastinha. This pivotal trip was in pursuit of showcasing the art of capoeira at the inaugural World Festival of Black Arts in Dakar. It marked a pivotal moment in the history of capoeira, with the two masters representing the rich cultural heritage and traditions associated with this Afro-Brazilian martial art form on an international stage. The significance of their participation in this event cannot be overstated, as it not only exposed capoeira to a global audience but also fostered greater appreciation and understanding of the cultural significance it holds within the African diaspora.

He was awarded his Diploma of capoeira from Pastinha in 1968 making him a full-fledged master of capoeira Angola. He subsequently toured Europe and the Middle East with Viva Bahia, a pioneering group that performed Afro-Brazilian folk arts. His mastery of capoeira was mesmerizing, captivating audiences with the rhythmic movements and powerful techniques inherent to this traditional Brazilian martial art form. The tour not only showcased capoeira but also other vibrant Afro-Brazilian cultural expressions such as SAMBA, MACULELE, CANDOMBLE, and PUXADA DE REDE. The fusion of music, dance, and acrobatics in his performances left a lasting impression, solidifying his status as a cultural ambassador and maestro of Afro-Brazilian traditions

Eventually, Pastinha’s academy fell on hard times. Pastinha, was asked by the government to vacate his building for renovations, but the space was never returned to him. Instead it became a restaurant with entertainment, now called SENAC. Pastinha died broke and bitter about his treatment, but never regretted living the life of a capoeirista. Around this time, Joao Grande retired from teaching Capoeira. He worked at a gas station, and at night, he worked in a folkloric show for tourists. He performed as a musician & dancer, but he didn’t play capoeira. João Grande started teaching again when one of his top students, MESTRE MORAES, and HIS top student, MESTRE COBRA MANSA, persuaded him to come out of retirement in the mid-1980s. He began to teach with their organization Grupo Capoeira Angola Pelourinho (GCAP).

Pastinha’s struggle and Joao Grande’s retirement reflect the challenges faced by many pioneers of capoeira. Despite the difficulties they encountered, their dedication to the art remained unwavering. It is a testament to their passion and commitment that they continued to impart their knowledge to future generations, shaping the legacy of capoeira.

The evolution of capoeira is intricately woven with the stories of individuals like Pastinha and Joao Grande, whose resilience and perseverance contributed to the preservation and global recognition of this Afro-Brazilian cultural practice. Through their enduring impact, the spirit of capoeira lives on, inspiring practitioners and enthusiasts worldwide. Their stories serve as a reminder of the rich history and vibrant spirit encapsulated within the art of capoeira, transcending time and circumstance.

In 1989, the renowned capoeira master was invited by Mestre JELON to embark on a tour of the United States, a journey that would prove to be an extraordinary success. The captivating displays of capoeira captured the hearts and minds of audiences across the nation, marking a significant milestone in the popularization of this traditional Brazilian art form. Following the resounding triumph of the tour, the maestro returned in 1990 to share the art of capoeira at distinguished venues such as the National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta, Georgia, and the esteemed Schomberg Center for Research for Black Culture in New York City. These presentations not only showcased the physical prowess and rhythmic elegance of capoeira but also served as a testament to the rich cultural heritage it embodies.

João Grande’s journey in the United States has been nothing short of remarkable. Ever since he made the decision to settle in New York City, he has been sharing his expertise and passion for Capoeira at the Capoeira Angola Center.

His dedication and impact have not gone unnoticed. In 1995, he was honored with a Doctorate of Humane Letters from Upsala College in East Orange, New Jersey, a testament to his contribution to the art and culture of Capoeira. Furthermore, in 2001, he was bestowed with the prestigious National Heritage Fellowship from the NEA, solidifying his standing as a revered practitioner of traditional arts in the US. João Grande’s influence extends beyond teaching, as he has also left his mark through music and video recordings. He has released an audio CD and several DVDs, showcasing not only his own artistry but also featuring his students and other distinguished figures of Capoeira Angola. João Grande’s multifaceted contributions have undoubtedly enriched the cultural tapestry of the United States, leaving an indelible legacy for future generations.

Now there are a few capoeira DOCUMENTARIES and videos that I’ve seen that feature Joao Grande, and this is one of my favorites…

For almost 30 years now, Mestre Joao Grande has been in New York, teaching this sacred art to all who wants to learn it, and he’s still going on strong. Here’s a video of him receiving an award at the White House.

Mestre Joao Grande’s dedication to teaching and preserving the art form has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of New York City. His unwavering commitment to sharing his knowledge with all who seek to learn from him has earned him widespread admiration and respect within the community.

At the prestigious White House, Mestre Joao Grande was honored for his significant contributions to the preservation of this sacred art. The award serves as a testament to his lifelong dedication and the profound impact he has had not only on his students but also on the broader cultural and artistic community.

Mestre Joao Grande’s legacy continues to inspire and uplift, ensuring that the rich tradition of this sacred art is passed down through generations. His journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of dedication, passion, and the transformative nature of the arts.

Mestre Joao Grande’s legacy is an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration for all those who seek to understand the essence of this sacred art form. His dedication and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the world of martial arts, serving as a guiding light for aspiring practitioners and enthusiasts alike. The profound impact of his journey resonates deeply, emphasizing the timeless significance of honoring tradition while embracing innovation.

This remarkable individual’s enduring influence underscores the profound and transformative nature of the arts, illuminating the path for future generations to follow. The resilience and perseverance demonstrated by Mestre Joao Grande serve as a profound testament to the unyielding spirit that defines the pursuit of mastery in any discipline. As his legacy continues to reverberate across time and space, it reinforces the importance of preserving and cherishing the rich heritage of this sacred art, ensuring that its timeless wisdom and beauty endure for years to come.

And it is this dedication, this passion, which has inspired Capoeiristas from all styles, and all over the world that makes Joao Grande the greatest capoeirista alive.

Revered for his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to the art of capoeira, Joao Grande has become a legendary figure in the capoeira community. His profound dedication and profound passion have touched the hearts of capoeiristas worldwide, transcending styles and uniting practitioners in their admiration for his mastery.

The influence of Joao Grande extends far beyond his remarkable abilities; he embodies the spirit of capoeira, fostering a sense of connection and respect among practitioners. His impact on the art form is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to pursue excellence in capoeira.

As the embodiment of the true essence of capoeira, Joao Grande stands as a testament to the transformative power of dedication and passion, reminding us all of the boundless potential within the art form.

Mestre Joao Grande, 

Muito Obrigado Por Tudo… From the bottom of our hearts.

If you would like to know more about Mestre Joao Grande and his academy, please go to his web site www.joaogrande.org

Oh. and just in case any of y’all are wondering… He’s still got it.