Norival Moreira de Oliveira (born June 22, 1945), also known as Mestre Nô, is a prominent figure within the world of capoeira angola. As a Grand Master, he holds a significant position as the Mestre of one of the largest Capoeira Angola Organizations globally, CAPOEIRA ANGOLA PALMARES.
Mestre Nô’s expertise and leadership have made a lasting impact on the art of capoeira, shaping its development and contributing to its widespread recognition.
He was born in Coroa, Itaparica, Salvador da Bahia, Brazil. At 7, Norival and his family moved to Massaranduba, a poor neighborhood not far from the church of Bomfim. Mestre Nilton and Mestre Cutica, brothers and highly respected capoeiristas who lived down the block, took young Norival to meet the elder masters Pirró and Zeca. Pirró, Zeca and Nilton organized and commanded many capoeira angola rodas in the streets.
Growing up in this vibrant community, surrounded by the rich cultural tapestry of Bahia, Norival was deeply influenced by the rhythms and traditions of capoeira. The spirited gatherings of capoeira angola rodas filled the streets with energy and camaraderie, and Norival found himself drawn to the mesmerizing movements and soul-stirring music that defined these gatherings.
Under the guidance of the respected capoeira masters, he honed his skills and developed a profound understanding of the cultural significance of capoeira. The teachings of the elder masters instilled in him a deep respect for the traditions and history of capoeira, shaping him into the dedicated and skilled capoeirista that he is today.
Norival’s journey from the streets of Massaranduba to becoming a renowned capoeirista is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, mentorship, and the rich cultural heritage of Bahia. His passion for capoeira and commitment to preserving its traditions continue to inspire many, both within his community and beyond.
Mestre Nô has made a profound impact on the world of Capoeira through his extensive career as a player, teacher, and founder of various Capoeira academies. His journey began as he immersed himself in the rodas of mestres, showcasing his skills and passion for this traditional Brazilian martial art. In 1965, he took a significant step forward by establishing his own academy, marking the beginning of his influential role as an educator in the Capoeira community.
Mestre Nô’s dedication to Capoeira is exemplified through the founding of Capoeira Academies Retintos, Orixás da Bahia, and Capoeira Angola Palmares, institutions that have played a key role in shaping the practice and preserving its rich traditions. Notably, he has imparted his knowledge to thousands of capoeiristas, leaving an indelible mark on the development of this art form.
As a testament to his expertise and leadership, Mestre Nô holds the distinguished titles of founder, president, and grand master of the Associacao Brasileira Cultural de Capoeira Palmares (ABCCP), an organization deeply committed to the instruction, promotion, and preservation of Capoeira Angola. Additionally, he serves as the president of A.B.C.A. (Associação Brasileira de Capoeira Angola), a highly esteemed association established by the most revered masters to safeguard the authenticity and heritage of capoeira angola.
Mestre Nô’s unparalleled impact is further underscored by his reputation as the “mestre dos mestres,” the “master of masters,” a title earned through his remarkable achievement of graduating over 75 students to the esteemed level of Master. This exceptional feat stands as a testament to his exceptional mentorship and the profound influence he has wielded in the realm of Capoeira.
The legacy of Mestre Nô continues to resonate around the globe, leaving an enduring imprint on the world of Capoeira and inspiring countless practitioners to uphold its traditions and values.
Today, Mestre Nô lives with his family on Itaparica Island. He travels throughout Brazil, the US, Europe, and other parts of the world helping capoeiristas reach their goals. In August 2009 there will be an international gathering to celebrate the grand opening of CENTRO ACADEMICO DE CAPOEIRA ANGOLA PALMARES in Boca do Rio. He conducts an annual “International Capoeira Angola Palmares Seminar” in Coroa Vera Cruz, Itaparica Island where he conducts classes and imparts the philosophy of traditional Capoeira Angola.
Mestre Nô’s dedication to spreading the essence and tradition of Capoeira Angola has been evident through his extensive travels and teaching initiatives. His impact extends not only throughout Brazil but also across borders, leaving a lasting impression on capoeiristas worldwide.
Furthermore, the annual “International Capoeira Angola Palmares Seminar” in Coroa Vera Cruz, Itaparica Island serves as a cornerstone for the preservation and dissemination of the philosophy of traditional Capoeira Angola. Through his classes and profound insights, Mestre Nô not only imparts physical training but also instills the cultural and philosophical aspects of this cherished art form. As Mestre Nô continues to inspire and guide capoeiristas in their journey, his legacy and dedication to Capoeira Angola resonate across continents, fostering a community united by a shared passion for this timeless martial art and cultural expression.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 