Latin Jazz Video Fix: Hector Martignon

The idea of an artist with “international” connections becomes a mute point in the Latin Jazz world. These musicians cross both musical and cultural borders in their work, touching upon several different nations on a daily basis. In many ways, there’s no doubt that they are “international” artists. Still, many of these artists keep their work firmly planted in the Western Hemisphere, both musically and culturally. The genres that inform their artistry come from North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean, with a liberal musical exchange between the traditions from each area.

All types of music from these areas are open for business, as Latin Jazz musicians draw upon dance music, sacred music, and high art music. Only rare Latin Jazz artists expand their international reach beyond this realm though, touching upon Europe and beyond. Western European Classical music sits on the outskirts of Latin Jazz for most musicians, and the integration of this art form remains somewhat unusual.

The exchange of cultural and musical ideas outside the Western Hemisphere also remains a bit unexplored as most Latin Jazz musicians keep their home bases in the Americas. With these thoughts in mind, the idea of “international” becomes fairly different and shines a new light upon the tradition.

Pianist Hector Martignon has spent a career crossing international borders, bringing his experiences into a highly sophisticated musical mixture. Born in Colombia, Martignon soaked up the music of his homeland before eventually finding his way to Germany for music studies. He lived a dual musical life during his studies in Germany, attending the Freiburger Musikhochschule for classical piano and composition while performing alongside Latin music greats like Celia Cruz and Ismael Quintana to earn his income.

As Martignon moved onto his professional career, he maintained this split musical emphasis, performing as a classical pianist in Germany, Italy, and Colombia, while recording with artists like Arturo Sandoval and Tata Güines. Brazilian music caught Martignon’s ear, inspiring a move to Brazil, where he pursued his interests and became an in-demand studio musician.

His path eventually led him to New York, where he continued his education at the Manhattan School of Music, earning dual degrees in classical piano and jazz studies. Martignon quickly established himself as an important player on the New York scene as he found work with Mario Bauzá, Tito Puente, Chico O’Farrill, and more. Regular work and creative liberties came along when Martignon earned the piano spot in conguero Ray Barretto’s band, an association that led to an eight year job.

Through a string of strong albums such as Handprints and My Summertime, Martignon helped define the sound of Barretto’s New World Spirit band. In 1996, Martignon released his first album as a leader, Portrait in White & Black, a session grounded by a trio and embellished with guests such as guitarist Romero Lubambo, Barretto, and more.

Martignon returned in 2000 with another trio date, The Foreign Affair, once again augmented by several special guests such as Ruben Blades, Randy Brecker, and Don Byas. As his career as a bandleader started to take shape, Martignon continued his diverse life as a sideman, recording albums in the classical world, composing for film, and conducting on Broadway. His 2007 album Refugee showed a more electronic edge to his work and earned him a Grammy nomination. Second Chance, Martignon’s latest release as a leader, shows a deep musical maturity.

After years of moving between musical scenes around the world, Martignon delivers a broad and intriguing artistic vision that includes Latin Jazz and more. In recognition of Martignon’s worldly view and stellar musicality, we dedicate today’s Weekly Latin Jazz Video to his music. Three clips feature Martignon and his group Foreign Affair performing in venues around the world, performing the pieces “Refugee,” “Andrea,” and “Teorema.” The last video includes a 2008 interview with Martignon from the television program Life In Music, providing a little more insight into the person and artist. It’s several view of an amazing musician with a diverse background - enjoy!



St. Louis Jazz Notes