Mestre Madeira

Mestre Madeira is a contemporary capoeira mestre from São Luís, Maranhão, who has been teaching capoeira since 1974. His journey in martial arts began at age thirteen when he met his first karate teacher—an encounter that ignited a lifelong dedication to combat disciplines. Martial arts, he has said, never let him go.

After more than thirty-five years of practice and teaching, Madeira became the first Capoeira master to return to his home district in São Luís. The meetings with Mestre Waldemar were particularly formative for him. Waldemar (1916-1990), the legendary Bahian mestre known as "O Herói da Liberdade", represented the purest lineage of Capoeira Angola—a direct connection to the historical mestre Siri de Mangue, the saveirista who had been a training companion of the legendary Besouro Mangangá.

In honor of Mestre Waldemar and his favorite teacher Siri de Mangue, Madeira named his group "Siri de Mangue". He also received the honors of a mestre from three legendary figures: João Pequeno (one of Pastinha's two principal heirs), Canjiquinha ("A Alegria da Capoeira"), and Suassuna (co-founder of Cordão de Ouro).

Initially, Madeira wanted only to teach the art of his "Estilo Novo" (New Style) to his ten children. But the teaching expanded, and Grupo Siri de Mangue grew beyond family. The group now practices and teaches Capoeira, Maculelê, Siri do Brasil (Madeira's self-defense system), and Samba do Sirí.

From São Luís, Madeira's influence has spread internationally. Grupo Siri de Mangue now has a presence in Brazil, Austria, Tanzania, Colombia, and Norway. In Austria, Professor Sarapó has established branches in Vienna and Linz, building a European base for Madeira's teachings. A documentary about Mestre Madeira is currently in production.

Madeira remains based in São Luís, Maranhão, where he continues to teach. His personal philosophy is captured in his saying: "Capoeira é minha vida, berimbau é minha voz" (Capoeira is my life, the berimbau is my voice).