Case

Origin

Guaxupé, MG

Years Active

1942–1978

Genres

jazz, bossa nova, samba, instrumental music

Instruments

saxophone, clarinet, drums

Biography

José Ferreira Godinho Filho, known as Case, was a Brazilian saxophonist, clarinetist, arranger, and composer born in Guaxupé, Minas Gerais, on August 3, 1932. Coming from a musical family, Case began his musical journey at a young age, initially playing drums under his father's guidance before transitioning to saxophone and clarinet in 1944. His early career involved performing with his family's orchestra and band in various towns and even circuses in São Paulo. A significant turning point came when he joined the orchestra of maestro Francisco Dorce at Rádio Tupi, where he honed his skills and studied instrumentation with Antenor Driussi. His dedication to music led him to study harmony with maestro Hans Joachim Koellreutter and to perform with various ensembles, including Conjunto do Betinho and Dick Farney's quartet.

Case's career spanned several decades, marked by his versatility and talent as an instrumentalist. He toured Europe in 1953 and, upon his return to Brazil, continued to collaborate with prominent musicians and orchestras. In 1961, he formed "Casé e seu Conjunto," featuring notable musicians like Amílton Godói and Adílson Godói. After the group disbanded, he continued to perform and record with various projects, including the Jongo Trio, and toured internationally again in 1968. His musical contributions extended to numerous recordings, showcasing his proficiency in jazz and Brazilian popular music. Despite his significant impact on the instrumental music scene, Case's name remained largely known among musicians, with his genius often unacknowledged by the broader public.

Tragically, Case passed away on November 30, 1978, in São Paulo, under unclear circumstances, leaving behind a legacy that has been increasingly recognized posthumously. His innovative improvisations and unique style influenced many prominent Brazilian musicians, including Paulo Moura, João Donato, and Nivaldo Ornelas. Efforts to preserve and promote his work, such as biographical books and radio programs dedicated to his music, have helped to shed light on his contributions to Brazilian instrumental music.

Discography

• Major Holley, Casé, Jimmy Campbell, Moacyr Peixoto – The Good Neighbors Jazz (1958)
• Casé e seu sax com Orquestra Astrophone – Álbum Musical Romântico (1969)