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The dedication of "El Trombinista" to Jim Martinez was an appropriate reflection of Jim's dedication to his family, friends, and music. Jim was a vital part of Orquesta Borinquen, and his friendship and presence has been, and will continue to be, missed by those who knew him.
This album, and this page, have been dedicated to Jim's memory. Below is Jim's bio as written by his wife, Kem Frances Buffo Martinez. Thank you for taking the time to read about our fallen brother, and for honoring him by reading these words.
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James "Jim" P. Martinez
Born on September 4, 1947 in Watsonville, CA. Jim left us on September 12, 2006. For those who knew Jim, he was an active musician since his elementary years at Bishop Elementary School in Sunnyvale, CA; and at Atascandero Unified High School. Jim became a very fine trombonist, and participated in two CDBA All-State Honor Bands during his high school years. During his college years, Jim served his country in the military, and was a musician for the United States Army Band at the Presidio of San Francisco and in Fulda, Germany. Jim obtained his Bachelor of Music degree from California State University San Francisco in 1973. While at San Fransicso State, Jim was mentored by legendary band director Dr. Edwin C. Druth, composer Dr. Roger Nixon, and trombone teacher Wilbur Sudmeiser.
Jim was a music teacher for the Richmond Unified School District in El Sobrante, CA (1973 - 1988); music instructor for the City College of San Francisco (1981 - 2001); and a music teacher for the Jefferson School District where he served from 1988 until his retirement in June 2006. In Jim's spare time he was president of Phi Mu Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter (1971 - 1973), musician for the Music From Bear Valley, CA (1972 - 1988), and with Orquesta Borinquen from 1974 until his final days with us. He also served as treasurer to the Board of Directors for Bay Section of California Music Education Association (1988 - 2005). For the many people Jim touched, he received the Amoroso Award in 1972 from California Statue University San Francisco; and President's Awards in 2005 from the Bay Section of California Music Education Association and California Association for Music Education (CMEA) in 2006.
Jim loved and respected life. He enjoyed photography, and traveling, especially to Hawaii which he considered his second home. Jim loved to snorkel and swim with the turtles, especially Lucky. Whenever possible, Jim would donate to music summer camps to give underprivileged children the opportunity to experience playing an instrument. Even in death, Jim continued to give as an organ donor. Jim leaves his loving wife of 38 years, Kem Frances Buffo Martinez; beloved mother, sister, mother and father-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
-Kem Frances Buffo Martinez-