Miguelito Martinez

Born in Chiapas, México, Miguelito Martinez is the founding director of Corazon Sur, a Mexican-Caribbean fusion ensemble, and co-director of Balamcoatl, a collaborative project focused on the rich music and dance traditions of the indigenous people of México.

A top-notch musician in the San Francisco Bay Area's Latin music scene, Martinez has performed and recorded with such notable musicians as Alfredo de la Fe, Orestes Vilato, Karl Perazzo, John Santos, Juan Carlos Formel, Michael Spiro, Orlando Maraca Valle, Felix Valoy, and others. In 2009, he was awarded the best Latin Jazz Flautist of The Year for the Latin Jazz Corner. He was awarded grants to support his music by the San Francisco Friends of Chamber of music, the Oakland Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the San Francisco Foundation.

This concert pays tribute to the South and Caribbean regions of Mexico that are often overshadowed by the cultures of Northern Mexico. Miguelito Martinez will share their expertise in drawing the musical bridge between Afro-Caribbean rhythms with Latin American powerful melodies, rhythms, and Jazz harmonies, including international musicians such as Erick Peralta on piano, Jackeline Rago on percussion, David Pinto on bass, and special guest Luna Alonso on vocals.

The West Oakland Sessions are back at the Dresher Ensemble Studio! This series of concerts focuses on local musicians in the San Francisco Bay Area, presented by Jazz in the Neighborhood and New Performance Traditions. Buy tickets in advance for a discounted price!