There are plenty of professional musicians who have maintained a successful career well into their later years. For 70 year old jazz guitarist Pat Martino, his career is nothing short of miraculous. An aneurysm in 1980 almost killed him. Emergency surgery saved his life, though it left Pat with memory loss, including not being able to play the guitar, or to connect with the player he once was.
1987 marked his return to performing. Having to relearn how to play the guitar has transformed Pat into a different style of player than his former self. He continues to tour the world, and will be making a stop at Buffalo Iron Works on April 19.
In the past year, the group has performed in Argentina, Chile, Italy, Poland, and Japan. Currently they are on a tour of the United States. Reflex Productions and Buffalo Iron Works have collaborated to bring this wonderful jazz show to Buffalo. There will be 2 performances, 7pm, and 9pm. $35 general admission, and $50 reserved seating.
What makes this show a bit more interesting is that the drummer is Carmen Intorre, Jr. He is from Buffalo’s west side, who studied at Juilliard School, and stayed in New York City to play professionally. He now tours the world with a jazz legend. More on Carmen in an upcoming piece. Completing the trio is Hammond organist Pat Bianchi, a native of Rochester, NY.
A 2008 documentary on Pat called ‘Martino Unstrung’, written, produced, and directed by Ian Knox does a great job of telling Pat’s story, including his impact in the music world. Excerpts from the film:
“He has this knowledge, and vocabulary like Wayne Shorter, Coltrane. He can go there.” -Carlos Santana
“He also plays so fast and so clean, that I kow it’s Pat.” –Joe Pesci
“He was talking about using his right hand more, fingerstyle in order to try to find some new way into the lucidity that he had before.” –Pete Townsend
An influential figure in the music world to say the least. This will be a must see show for anyone who appreciates the presence of a legendary performer, and the perseverance of a life making the most of a second chance.
Tickets for the event are available at ticketfly.com, Buffalo Iron Works box office, and Allentown Music.