Mestre Betinho

Origin

São Luís, MA

Years Active

1993–present

Genres

samba, capoeira

Instruments

percussion

Biography

Mestre Betinho, born Iralberth Mendes Sousa on November 13, 1978, in São Luís, Maranhão, is a prominent figure in Brazilian culture, renowned for his contributions to both capoeira and samba.

His journey with capoeira began at the age of 13 in 1993, initially as a casual activity that soon evolved into his life's philosophy. He trained under various masters, including Mestre Jorge Navalha and Mestre Mão de Onça, eventually receiving his "Aluno Formado de 2° Grau" in 1999. Betinho extended his reach by teaching capoeira in Pinheiro, Maranhão, and later founded the Nação Palmares Capoeira in 2000. His international influence grew significantly when he moved to France in 2004, where he continued to teach and promote capoeira, eventually founding ATUAL CAPOEIRA in 2013. He has also had performance opportunities in the United States, showcasing his capoeira skills in casinos and cultural dinner shows.

Beyond capoeira, Mestre Betinho is deeply connected to the samba community. He is recognized as the first mestre de bateria (master of the percussion section) for the renowned samba school Portela, a position he held for 30 years. This role places him among the most important figures in the history of Portela's percussion ensemble, "Tabajara do Samba," alongside Mestre Marçal. His involvement highlights his versatility and deep roots in Brazilian musical traditions, particularly in the vibrant samba scene of Rio de Janeiro.