Ricardo Martinez is passionate about teaching and playing saxophone and brings a breadth of experience into the lesson room. He believes in developing a strong foundation of fundamentals. His aim is to develop independent musicians by asking questions in lessons and helping to improve critical listening and evaluative skills. Martinez studied at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, and in France at the Cergy-Pontoise Conservatory. Martinez has been a featured soloist with numerous ensembles, including most recently the University of Pacific’s Wind Bands, where he also teaches saxophone. He regularly performs with symphonies and festivals and has even recorded at the acclaimed Skywalker Ranch in Marin County. As an educator, Martinez has been invited to teach and perform at Stanford University, CSU Summer Arts, and the Indiana University Summer Saxophone Academy. Martinez is a Yamaha Performing Artist and is endorsed by BG France and Legere Reeds. In his free time, he likes to hike in the woods and is interested in Japanese teas. He is an avid language learner, speaking Spanish, French, and currently learning Japanese.