About Me

Martin Torres began playing guitar at the age of 12, by 15 he was playing professionally with a number of bands throughout California's Central Valley. Four years later, he picked up the bass and has since made it his main instrument.

Martin holds a Bachelor’s degree in composition and bass performance from Chapman University where he studied with Michael Martin and David Black.  He completed his formal education with an MFA degree from the University of California at Irvine where he focused on understanding modern composition and improvisational techniques with renowned jazz flautist and composer James Newton and former Miles Davis pianist Kei Akagi.

In addition to his formal degrees in music, Martin has continued his study of modern composition and improvisational techniques with some of the most innovative pioneers within this field, which include Bertram Turetzky, Darek Oles, David Friesen and Kei Akagi.

In 2001, his jazz group On The Mile released their debut CD "Different Lines". In 2002 his rock band FeLT released their first recording "Dessert Center". Both releases were met with critical acclaim.

With the recording of "Poem",  Martin set off on his own to create a record that would be the culmination of all the various influences and styles that make up his musical palette. These original compositions and arrangements display his unique ability to balance several musical concepts within the framework of a single composition. 

His musicianship is best exemplified in his artful integration of different musical forms. He combines the technical precision of classical music with the improvisational expressive qualities of jazz, coupled with Latin music and elements of modern concert music to create a unique mosaic of sound. His technique as a composer allows him to weave these genres into one indelible style. The result is an exciting and moving musical experience.

While Martin explored the boundaries of improvisation and modern composition, he remained active as a performer in Southern California. He has performed with Ernie Watts, Kei Akagi and Billy Taylor and has recorded for television programs such as The Guiding Light, Malcolm In the Middle and HBO series Girls.

In 2016 Martin joined two new instrumental groups, AllBlack Spiral, original music in an effects driven, ambient, melodic style. This group brings together several musical styles, combining them in such a way that they defy category. High energy playing, intriguing compositions and ambient effects driven sound are what this group is about. And Redshift, original jazz fusion, ranging from Bebop, Funk, Blues and Free Jazz. Exceptional composing, improvisation and ensemble playing are trademarks of this group. 

Martin Torres has also made career in education. In addition to maintaining a number of private students, Martin also teaches at Cerritos College, Vanguard University, University of California, Irvine and the University of California Riverside.