Marcos da Silva, Mestre Barrão, was born in the port city of Recife, on the North East coast of Brazil. Recife is renowned for its Brazilian music, dance, and long Capoeira tradition. In 1974, Marcos began studying Capoeira with Mestre Pirajá. While learning the foundations of the art, he showed an affinity for the drums and other instruments and the skills that would conduct his life. He learned about the unstable situations of the street: how to be wise and clever when playing, how to read opponents, and how to judge situations that one invariably finds oneself in, both inside and outside the Roda of Capoeira.

In 1980, Marcos began to teach. In 1982, a young Barrão was determined to test his skills against the best opponents he could find and entered the prestigious National Championship in Rio de Janeiro. Such was his skill and fortune that, in the end, Mestre Barrão left as Brazilian Champion. Upon his return, many opportunities came his way to teach in schools, community centres, and universities throughout Brazil, and he eventually found himself at the Vancouver International Children’s Festival. Ultimately, in 1992, he immigrated to Canada and began teaching at various locations. He started The Annual International Capoeira Encounter and has renowned and respected Mestres from all over the world visit and share their skills. In 1996, he opened Canada’s first Academy of Capoeira, Axé Capoeira.

Today, Mestre Barrão frequently receives invitations to conduct and teach Capoeira at international workshops.