Severina Baracho

Origin

Nazaré da Mata, PE

Also known as

Dona Biu

Years Active

2025

Genres

ciranda, northeastern popular culture

Biography

Severina Baracho da Silva, affectionately known as Dona Biu, was a renowned female ciranda dancer and songwriter from Pernambuco, born in Nazaré da Mata, Pernambuco, on November 12, 1953. Heiress to the legacy of her father, Master Antônio Baracho, one of the great names of ciranda and maracatu in Pernambuco, Severina dedicated her life to the preservation and dissemination of this cultural expression. Since childhood, immersed in the ciranda circles that her father animated, she developed a deep love and talent for the rhythm.

Alongside her sister, Maria Dulce, she formed the duo "As Filhas de Baracho", which kept the family tradition alive, presenting ciranda on Brazilian and international stages. Her powerful voice and her ability as a songwriter made her an essential figure in northeastern popular culture. Severina also actively collaborated with the iconic cirandeira Lia de Itamaracá, participating in shows and tours, including a memorable performance at Rock in Rio in 2024.

In addition to her artistic career, Severina Baracho worked in various occupations to support her family, but always with pride in her trajectory. Her dedication to ciranda earned her recognition and consolidated her as a guardian of popular culture. Dona Biu passed away on December 6, 2025, at the age of 72, victim of complications from lung cancer, leaving an eternal legacy and deep sorrow in everyone who appreciates the richness of Pernambuco's music and culture.