Martin Zarzar- Musician, producer, songwriter.

I wanted to be a musician ever since I lived in the London starting at the age of two.  I was so inspired and encouraged by the musicians of the South African community there, including  Eugene Skeef and members of the group District Six.

My interest in rhythm and composition has resulted in playing several instruments, and my interest in literature has been a driving force in my pursuit as a songwriter.  As a child,  I studied piano on and off for a few years and then became interested in guitar and percussion.  I spent much of my childhood between Europe and Lima, Peru, where I was born, and I believe all that traveling deeply influenced my outlook on life and my music.

As a teenager in the USA I toured with the band Al Andalus, an ensemble of musicians from many parts of the world which celebrated the music of Andalusian Spain.

After attending Berklee College of music on a scholarship and graduating with honors I moved to Portland, Oregon to join the band Pink Martini.

I am currently working on my fifth studio album, and I teach privately upon request.

Past collaborations:

Pink Martini, Simon Shahin, Jamey Haddad, Oscar Stagnaro, Essiet Essiet, Al-Andalus Ensemble, John Butler, Eugene Skeef, Women Of The World, Leo Blanco, Fared Shafinury, Benny Green, Rufus Wainwright, Mario Frangoulis, Edna Vazquez, Tommy Thayer, Patrick Lamb, Mario Diaz, and Dave Eggar, Pacific Youth Choir, among others.

Awards and Nominations:

2013-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Story Song

2013-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Children’s Music

2013-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Vox Pop Award

2014- Independent Music Award for Best Song - World Beat

2014-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Love Song

2019-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Acoustic Song

2019-Independent Music Award for Best Song - Reggae/Ska/Dancehall