Sandra Peres

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1989–present

Genres

children's music, mpb

Instruments

piano, vocals, keyboards

Biography

Sandra Peres is a Brazilian pianist, composer, arranger, and singer, born in São Paulo in 1963. She is widely recognized for her significant contributions to Brazilian popular music, particularly in the realm of children's music. Peres began her musical education at the age of seven, focusing on the piano. She later graduated in piano and opera singing from the São Paulo Music Conservatory. Her academic pursuits also led her to study contemporary composition at the Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique (IRCAM) in Paris and music therapy in Brazil. Early in her career, she worked as a ballet accompanist before collaborating with the singer-songwriter Walter Franco. Her professional journey took a pivotal turn when she met Paulo Tatit in the mid-1980s, leading to the formation of their renowned children's music duo, Palavra Cantada, in 1994.

Peres's inspiration for creating high-quality children's music stems from a deep appreciation for nature, keen observation of children, and her own dreams and feelings. Her compositions often explore everyday themes relevant to children, presented with technical skill and sensitivity. Some of her most celebrated works include "Sopa," "Sambinha da Fralda Molhada" (with Luiz Tatit), "Ciranda" (with Zé Tatit), and "África" (with Paulo Tatit and Arnaldo Antunes). The duo Palavra Cantada has released numerous acclaimed albums, receiving multiple awards such as the Prêmio Sharp, Prêmio TIM, and Prêmio Caras, solidifying their reputation for producing "quality music for children."

Beyond her work with Palavra Cantada, Sandra Peres has also been involved in producing jingles and instrumental soundtracks. The duo's commitment to enriching children's lives through music has extended to various formats, including CDs, DVDs, and books. In recent years, Palavra Cantada has also gained a massive following on digital platforms, with billions of views on their YouTube channel, demonstrating the enduring appeal and relevance of their musical creations. Peres continues to be an active and influential figure in Brazilian music, inspiring new generations with her innovative approach to children's music and her dedication to artistic excellence.