Bernie Martini

Born into a musically gifted family, Bernie Martini grew up in a home where melody and rhythm were part of everyday life. His father, a professional vocalist and musician, and his equally talented mother were a constant source of inspiration for Bernie and his two sisters. Yet, Bernie’s journey to becoming a musician was not a direct one.

As a child, Bernie’s dreams revolved around architecture and culinary arts. He spent countless hours sketching cityscapes and experimenting in the kitchen, even with musical instruments within arm’s reach. It wasn’t until the age of ten that his passion for music truly ignited. Starting with the bass guitar, Bernie was self-taught and practiced tirelessly, often dedicating up to eight hours a day. His early experiences playing in the local church band, led by his father, laid the foundation for his future in music.

At seventeen, Bernie and his father built a home recording studio, a pivotal step that expanded his musical horizons. He mastered the synthesizer, experimented with various instruments, and honed his skills in sequencing and music production. This period was instrumental in shaping his creative voice.

By the age of twenty-five, Bernie realized he needed a dramatic change. Fueled by a desire for adventure, he made the bold decision to move to Japan. With savings in hand, he boarded a plane to Nagoya, embarking on a journey that would transform his life. Teaching English to make ends meet, Bernie soon sought to break into Japan’s music scene despite the challenges posed by a language barrier.

His breakthrough came during an open mic night at Shooters sports bar, leading to a chance meeting with renowned artist Prisca Molotsi. Prisca recognized Bernie’s talent and introduced him to prominent jazz venues such as Jungle Jap and Star Eyes. These performances caught the attention of industry insiders and opened doors to exciting opportunities.

Bernie’s career took a major leap forward when Hiroyuki Tobitsuka, an entertainment agent, offered him a contract to perform at The Ritz Carlton Osaka. This led to further contracts with prestigious hotels such as the Westin Chosun and Grand Hyatt in Seoul, South Korea.

Embracing new horizons, Bernie transitioned to performing aboard luxury cruise lines, entertaining guests on Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Norwegian Cruise Line ships. His dynamic performances captivated audiences in venues ranging from theaters and lounges to pool decks and atriums.

Today, Bernie continues to enchant audiences through public performances and private events in San Antonio, Texas. His website, berniemartini.com, offers the latest updates on his musical engagements.

From his humble beginnings in Salem, Oregon, to becoming a sought-after entertainer across the globe, Bernie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. He remains dedicated to exploring new opportunities while sharing his love of music with the world.