Stephen Martin

Stephen Martin has established himself as a uniquely gifted, and intensely spirited jazz saxophonist. Born in Champaign, IL and raised in St. Louis, MO, Martin began playing saxophone at age 10 and thrived in a community with a rich tradition in jazz. He has been recognized often in his career for his excellence in music, receiving the 2nd place prize for the 2018 Carinthian International Jazz Award in Austria, among many other acknowledgements.  ​Martin studied under Grammy-Nominated jazz legend Bobby Watson, and world-renowned classical saxophonist Tim Timmons. He also often cites LA Jazz Collective founder/saxophonist Matt Otto, and St. Louis underground sax great Dave Stone as having had substantial influences on his development.  Martin has developed a personal sound on saxophone characterized by a relentless energy and adventurous ideas. The vibe of his music ranges widely from sensitive and inviting to thunderous and enraged - inspired by perhaps his deepest musical influence, John Coltrane. Martin's debut album, Vision, was released under the independent artist label SubtleStreet Records on July 27th, 2018. It debuted in the top 40 of the iTunes Jazz Charts, and as an Amazon best-seller in the first week of its release.  ​​​  Currently based in Kansas City, Martin maintains a regular performance schedule and is on faculty at The Conservatory of Music & Dance at The University of Missouri - Kansas City (UMKC).