The title of the song ‘Água de Beber’ has a double meaning! The literal meaning is ‘water to drink’, but the title also refers to water as a source of life. The song was commissioned by composer Antônio Carlos Jobim and lyricist Vinicius de Moraes, big names in Bossa Nova and Jazz. It was created as an homage to the new capital Brasilia designed by famous architect Oscar Niemeyer.

The new capital lies on a tropical savannah-like plateau. The only inspiration to write something about Brasilia was the lake. The writer has given a romantic touch to the song by mixing water, love, and forgiveness in his lyrics. It is an easy song for Brazilians to sing along to and it is upbeat.

My father had moved to Brasília in search of a better life, he met my mother there and I was born there in the new Brazilian capital.

My name is Galileia Carmenucia Mendes. I have lived in Enschede since 1998 and work as a child psychotherapist and as a model/mannequin. My husband is clarinettist André Kerver. Our dog's name is Brisa. My hobbies are singing, dancing, sports and films.