Joe Martin
Fields of Study:
Bass
Degrees and Studies:
BM Jazz Studies '94, William Paterson University
Biographical Information:
Joe Martin is one of the most sought-after bassists on the current New York City jazz scene. Known for his warm sound, facile ear, harmonic flexibility, and lyrical solos, he has performed with a diverse range of musicians which includes Andy Bey, Vinicius Cantuaria, Anat Cohen, Avishai Cohen, Billy Drummond, Art Farmer, Aaron Goldberg, Jon Gordon, Joel Frahm, Larry Goldings, Gilad Hekselman, Jonathan Kreisberg, Lionel Loueke, Bill McHenry, John McNeil, Brad Mehldau, The Mingus Big Band, Ben Monder, Jane Monheit, Chris Potter, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Maria Schneider, Jaleel Shaw, Mark Turner, and many others. Continuous musical dialogue amongst great musicians is a major source of inspiration for Joe.
Composition is another indispensable component to Joe's musical world. A strong melodic sense and the use of the bass part as both function and counterpoint are apparent in his writing. His most recent CD, available on Anzic Records, is titled Not By Chance, and it features Chris Potter, Brad Mehldau, and Marcus Gilmore. His debut CD Passage (Fresh Sound New Talent Records) which features Mark Turner, Kevin Hays, and Jorge Rossy, received much acclaim from critics and musicians alike.
Originally from Pella, Iowa, Joe graduated magna cum laude from William Paterson University in 1994 with a degree in Jazz Studies. His teachers included Todd Coolman, Rufus Reid, and Harold Mabern. Prior to that he studied for two years at DePaul University in Chicago where he studied bass with Larry Gray. Other private teachers have included Ron Carter, Stuart Sankey, and Dennis James.