Jim Martinez is a man of many talents who wears many hats. He is a versatile pianist and organist, a Steinway artist, recording artist, concert promoter, teacher, businessman, graphic/web designer, worship leader, and minister of music.
The California native began his musical career at the age of four, received 18 years of classical training, and has since amassed a list of musical accomplishments encompassing nearly all styles of music.
The plan was to become a classical pianist, but it was in his junior year that his high school jazz band needed a piano player, and he was hooked. Getting established in his career barely in his early 20s, he found that he could stay busy by booking his own concerts rather than waiting for the phone to ring for an engagement. He’s been doing it for the past 20 years.
Breaking In
Looking to getting involved in the annual Sacramento Traditional Jazz Festival, he offered to play gratis in the lobby of the host hotel. The Festival director made note of the large crowds he attracted, and Jim was a regular performer over the next 15 years. When Big Tiny Little suddenly passed away prior to appearing at the Dixieland Monterey Festival, Jim was called to replace him, which meant brushing up on his ragtime, Dixieland, and swing repertoire.
He performed, toured, and recorded with an impressive list of jazz notables. He’s been booked at Yoshi’s
