Dan Martin is a musician and songwriter from Sonoma, California with a love of music and the richness it can bring to life! His musical life began at a very young age, starting with family sing-alongs as far back as his memory goes. Dan’s parents are both creative types and were supportive of his explorations into the world of music, in addition to modeling the work and tenacity to make such endeavors a reality. Among countless blessings, he is thankful for his Dad sharing instruments and record stack access, and that his Mom let him listen to the Beastie Boys in the car.
Although he understands the absurdity of the term, Dan is primarily self-taught on multiple instruments and focuses on the rhythm section side of things (Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano). To hone his skills and correct some bad habits, he studied drums, music theory, piano, and played in an audition based 13 piece band “Commercial Music Ensemble” while obtaining a certificate in commercial music production at Sacramento City College in the early 2000’s. While he had only rudimentary private lessons as a young child, he acknowledges his many teachers from Elementary School to College; Dan Thomasma at Kelly Elementary School, Bill Hungate choir at Jackson Hole Middle School, Audie Tatum at Sonoma Valley High School, Tony Dey drums at Sacramento City College, in addition to all the players and bandmates he has shared the stage with for shaping his musical sensibilities. He continued his education and obtained a BS in Psychology from Sonoma State University, with a focus on biofeedback and stress management.
Dan has been performing music with groups since 1996, when he formed his first band with friends upon moving to Sonoma Valley at age fifteen. His first piano recital performance of “Star Wars” at age 7 remains a favorite musical memory. His musical taste is extremely broad, favorites range from Folk and early Country to Punk, Funk, Hip-Hop and old school Soul and R&B. He has a bit of a fixation and longtime love of Jamaican music and will be excited if you ask about Ska, Rocksteady and/or Reggae. Currently he performs around the Bay Area both solo and with his own project Dan Martin and the Noma Rocksteady Band (Voted best Reggae in the North Bay in 2020!), as well as some freelance drumming with acts such as Jr. Boogie, Wingo Moon, and The No Buenos.
In addition to his seven years at Cannon School, his teaching experience includes teaching percussion seminars at Valley of the Moon Boys and Girls club, as well as many years as a swimming instructor for all ages and levels. Dan is excited to share musical knowledge, technique, and inspiration with students, and to be a part of the most excellent Cannon School of Music! What a joy to build confidence and camaraderie through music!