As Galvão

Origin

Ourinhos, SP

Also known as

Irmas Galvao

Years active

1947–2021

Genres

sertanejo, música caipira, lambada

Instruments

sanfona, viola, violão, vocais

Biography

As Galvão, formerly known as Irmãs Galvão, was a sertanejo duo formed by sisters Mary Zuil Galvão and Marilene Galvão. Born in Ourinhos and Palmital, respectively, in the interior of São Paulo, they began their artistic careers in 1947 at Rádio Club Marconi in Paraguaçu Paulista, at the ages of seven and five, respectively. Encouraged by their parents, Bertholdo and Maria, the duo soon demonstrated remarkable talent, performing on various radio stations and broadcasters before establishing themselves professionally in São Paulo.

Throughout their extensive career, which spanned over seven decades, As Galvão became the longest-running active sertanejo duo in Brazil. They were pioneers in several aspects, paving the way for other women in the predominantly male world of sertanejo music. In 1985, with the production of Maestro Mário Campanha, they released the lambada "No Calor dos Teus Abraços", which earned them a Gold Record and national and international projection, with songs played in countries such as Portugal, Canada, and Switzerland.

In 2002, following a numerology suggestion, they changed their artistic name to As Galvão. The duo ended their activities in June 2021 due to health issues faced by Marilene, who suffered from Alzheimer's. Marilene Galvão passed away in August 2022. Mary Galvão, meanwhile, married the duo's maestro and music producer, Mário Campanha. As Galvão left a significant legacy in sertanejo music, with over 300 recorded songs and a hallmark of longevity and artistic perseverance.