Tag: mestre-moraes

I JUST HAD THE BEST WEEKEND EVER!

Greetings!

Last Friday morning (5/30/25), I arrived in Oakland for the long-awaited 10th anniversary celebration of Grupo No balanco D’Angola, a prestigious Capoeira Angola group that has made significant contributions to the community, which I previously wrote about in detail (Click HERE). The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as friends, families, and Capoeira enthusiasts gathered to honor a decade of dedication to this unique art form. The weekend was filled with excitement and learning, featuring a series of fascinating workshops led by the renowned Mestre Moraes and his talented student Mestre Kenji, who hails from Japan. Master Moraes’s deep knowledge and passion for Capoeira Angola shone through as he expertly guided us through various drills and practices. These workshops focused on fundamental movements, intricate techniques, principles, and the essential music of Capoeira Angola, immersing participants in the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful art form. As we practiced, the energy of the group soared, fostering a spirit of camaraderie that transcended borders and backgrounds. On the last day, there was a roda and a barbecue in the host Sergio’s backyard, where laughter and celebration echoed, allowing all to connect, share stories, and reflect on their journey within the world of Capoeira. The warmth of the community and the joy of movement created lasting memories that would resonate long after the event concluded.

Hence, this blog post.

A highlight of the event was undoubtedly Mestre Moraes taking the time to share his personal insights about his transformative journey in Capoeira, including anecdotes that resonate deeply with both seasoned practitioners and novices alike. He emphasized what it truly means to be a dedicated and authentic angoleiro, offering wisdom that is both inspiring and enlightening for everyone involved. Additionally, the sense of community and camaraderie that blossomed throughout the weekend made the experience even more memorable and impactful for all who attended.

And it’s always great to see some of the Capoeira Angola fam from SoCal…

In case you’re wondering, the guy next to me is Brian Shields, a dedicated student of Capoeira Angola with Ngolo Preto Velho, based in the San Bernadino area.

You’re not gonna see pictures or videos of this event on this blog, basically because I went there to celebrate and to LEARN, not for some photo ops. However, I will show you some photos of the individuals below.

Of course, the man to the far left in this picture needs no introduction, but I’m gonna do it anyway.

MESTRE MORAES, who began training in Capoeira de Angola at age 7, founded Grupo Capoeira Angola Pelourinho (GCAP) in 1980 to preserve traditional teachings and return to capoeira’s philosophical and African roots, particularly from Angola. He aimed to create a space free from commercial influences, honoring his mentors’ legacy while preserving capoeira’s authenticity. GCAP serves as a guardian of capoeira’s history and as a platform for education and cultural exchange, promoting understanding among practitioners through workshops and community events, thereby reinforcing cultural identity in a changing world.

Yes the video is in Portuguese, but like I always say, if you’re in Capoeira and you don’t know Portuguese, then you should learn.

The man between me and Mestre Moraes is Contra Mestre Sergio Bittencort Ferreira, founder of Grupo No Balanco D’Angola and main host of the event. He grew up in Belo Horizonte, a city rich in culture and tradition, where he began practicing Capoeira Angola with GCAP at a young age. His early experiences in this vibrant environment ignited a deep passion for the art form, and he quickly became an accomplished capoeirista. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to not only mastering the techniques of Capoeira Angola but also to preserving its rich history and cultural significance. Through his teaching, he aims to inspire the next generation and ensure that the traditional elements of Capoeira Angola are transmitted and appreciated by all, thus fostering a vibrant legacy that celebrates its roots while embracing the future.

Here he is in action:

Now, the man standing next to me is Kenji Shibata, known as MESTRE KENJI.

He has dedicated over 20 years to promoting Capoeira angola in Japan through GCAP. His commitment to the art includes not only mastering its skills but also teaching and nurturing new practitioners, instilling values of discipline, respect, and community. He actively organizes workshops and cultural events that enhance understanding of Capoeira angola, bridging cultural gaps and ensuring its traditions are preserved. Kenji inspires students to embrace Capoeira as a means of personal growth, creating a supportive environment that fosters self-expression and cultural pride.

Now, my weekend cannot be complete by talking about this man here with me, Daniel Mattar, a very skilled Angoleiro, totally dedicated to Capoeira Angola, not to mention a great father and gentleman. His passion for Capoeira Angola is truly inspiring; it’s evident in the way he moves, blending agility and grace with resilience and strength.

Once again, I wish I knew more about his story in Capoeira Angola. I’m not even sure of what title he holds (I think it’s treinel, but I could be wrong). Man, I gotta learn to start interviewing people.

However, I do know that he hails from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, a hub of cultural richness and diversity. Before he joined the respected Grupo No Balanco D’Angola, he was with the renowned Group Fundacao Internacional Capoeira Angola (FICA for short), where he honed his skills and embraced the deep philosophical roots of this beautiful art form. Daniel’s journey not only embodies the essence of Capoeira but also reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation, as he often shares his knowledge and experiences with young practitioners, instilling in them the same love and respect for the traditions of Capoeira Angola that he holds dear.

Before I left Oakland to come back home, I took a moment to pay my respects to MESTRE THEMBA and the good people at Grupo Ngolo Preto Velho, who have also played significant roles in my journey and the community I cherish. Their wisdom and guidance have been invaluable, and visiting them always fills me with a sense of peace and gratitude.

What you’re seeing below is the sun rising in the early morning, casting a beautiful golden hue across the sky at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles, an hour and a half before I made it home. The quiet of the early morning blended seamlessly with the hustle and bustle that awaited as the city began to wake, reminding me of the contrasting energies that exist in life.

Once again, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mestres Moraes and Kenji, CM Sergio, Alma (HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BOTH OF YOU!!!), Daniel, Kofi, Jeff, and all of you at Grupo No Balanco D’Angola for all of the love and camaraderie you’ve shown us guests. Your warm hospitality has truly made our experience unforgettable, allowing us to feel like part of your vibrant community.

The passion you have for capoeira Angola is palpable and inspiring, igniting a shared enthusiasm that resonates deeply within all of us. It’s in the smiles we exchanged during practice, and the incredible connections we’ve made that showcase the essence of what you embody as a group. We deeply appreciate the dedication and effort you put into nurturing both your craft and your visitors, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued. Thank you for making our time together so enriching and memorable; we look forward to many more moments shared in the spirit of capoeira.

Axe!

Oh, and one more thing. Thank you Sergio for the beautiful event shirt:

Well it was beautiful until it took a 8 hour bus ride in my luggage. And I promise I’ll be wearing it in STYLE one day… After I lose some weight.

NO BALANCO D’ ANGOLA 10 ANOS

Greetings!

This is one of my favorite videos of MESTRE MORAES.

In this video, he, along with Mestres João Grande, Cobra Mansa, Mestre Themba, and Mestre Nego Gato, performed at the Center for Research in Black Culture in Schoemberg, New York, in 1990 in a wonderful display of skill, dexterity, and respect. This event marked a significant milestone as it was one of the 1st public demonstrations of Capoeira Angola here in the U.S.A., a style rich in history and cultural significance. FOR 45 YEARS NOW, he has dedicated his life to spreading this beautiful art of Capoeira Angola all over the world, inspiring countless practitioners and enthusiasts alike. His relentless passion has not only increased awareness of Capoeira but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for its roots and traditions.

Here he is below, in his first visit to the island nation of Japan, where he shared the rhythms and teachings of Capoeira,planting seeds, and creating connections with a new generation of students eager to learn about this vibrant martial art form and its philosophical underpinnings.

And speaking of new generations…

The man playing with Metsre moraes in this video, who is also featured in the previous video, is named Kenji Shibata, who is now recognized as MESTRE KENJI.

For over 20 years, he’s been holding it down for GCAP, helping to establish and grow Capoeira angola in his nation of Japan. With a deep commitment to the art form, Kenji has dedicated himself not only to mastering the skills inherent to Capoeira but also to teaching and nurturing a new generation of practitioners, instilling in them the values of discipline, respect, and community that are fundamental to this unique martial art.

Through his relentless efforts, Kenji has played an instrumental role in bridging cultural gaps and promoting the rich traditions of Capoeira angola in Japan, solidifying its place within the global Capoeira community and ensuring that its teachings and heritage are preserved for future generations. His dedication goes beyond mere practice, as he tirelessly organizes workshops, cultural exchanges, and community events that foster understanding and appreciation for this vibrant art form.

As he continues to inspire those around him, Kenji remains a beacon of passion and perseverance, championing the art that has transformed not only his life but also the lives of countless others in his country. His influence is felt in the hearts of many, as he imparts the values of discipline, creativity, and respect that Capoeira embodies, encouraging his students to embrace the dance as a means of personal growth and cultural pride. By creating a supportive environment, Kenji empowers individuals to express themselves and connect with their roots, ensuring that the spirit of Capoeira angola thrives in Japan for years to come.

So, you may be asking me, “Why bring these 2 amazing mestres up now, John?”

Yeah, like I really need a reason to blog about 2 AMAZING Capoeira Angola Mestres on my blog about CAPOEIRA ANGOLA.

However, the reason I’m blogging about them now is because on the weekend of May 30th – June 1st, BOTH mestres are coming to the Bay Area for Grupo No Balanco D’Angola’s 10th year celebration, and I’m gonna be there!

It will be a full weekend of Capoeira Angola, where you will have the unique opportunity to learn from renowned Mestres Moraes and Kenji. This event promises to be an immersive experience, filled with workshops, performances, and community gatherings that honor the rich history and cultural significance of Capoeira.

We will be celebrating not only 10 years of No Balanço D’Angola but also the dedication and passion that our community has shown in keeping this beloved tradition alive for future generations. Over the past decade, we have witnessed a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable moments, extraordinary performances, and a deep sense of unity among practitioners and supporters alike. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved, from their talented instructors like Contramestre Sergio Ferreira, to their enthusiastic students. Their growth is not merely quantitative; it reflects an ever-deepening connection to our roots and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this vibrant celebration that showcases the spirit and artistry of Capoeira Angola! Join us as we honor the rich cultural heritage of our art form, immersing ourselves in the rhythms, movements, and values that define us, all while inspiring a new generation to carry on the legacy that has brought us all together. Your participation is not just welcomed; it is essential as we forge ahead, ensuring that the flame of our passion continues to burn brightly for years to come.

I hope to see you there!!!