Ladario Teixeira

Origin

Uberlândia, MG

Years Active

1928–1964

Genres

instrumental, classical, popular brazilian

Instruments

saxophone

Biography

Ladário Teixeira was a renowned Brazilian saxophonist and composer, born in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, on September 10, 1895. Blind from birth, his passion for music manifested in childhood, inspired by the recordings of Patápio Silva. Self-taught, he learned to play the saxophone using an instrument abandoned by his father. His genius led him to be admitted to the São Paulo Conservatory of Music, where, despite having enrolled in the violin course, his exceptional talent on the saxophone was already evident.

His professional career took off with performances in cities like Campinas and, later, on tours across Europe and the United States. In 1928, he recorded memorable records for Parlophon, including his own compositions such as "Soluços do Jegue" and "Canto do Galo", as well as interpretations of classics. A milestone in his career was the development of a special saxophone model, the "Ladário Model", in collaboration with the manufacturer Selmer, which expanded the instrument's capabilities and was adopted worldwide. His skill on the saxophone was so remarkable that, according to accounts, the son of the instrument's inventor, Adolphe Sax, congratulated him on his mastery.

Ladário Teixeira also stood out for his activism in defense of the rights of the visually impaired, having worked as a Braille teacher. He married pianist and conductor Aída Dias Teixeira, with whom he had six children. He passed away in Belo Horizonte on August 3, 1964, leaving an inestimable legacy in Brazilian and international music, remembered for his innovation, talent, and perseverance. His work and life continue to inspire musicians and celebrate the human capacity to overcome barriers through art.