Martin began playing the piano at age 9 and went down the conventional classical grades route, then whilst in his early teens a family friend introduced him to the Acoustic Guitar. After only a few months Martin had formed a band with school friends and began jamming after the school day had finished playing rock and blues tunes. At this point Martin formed a writing Partnership with Vocalist Katy Tucker and Drummer Jesse Richards that would last 7 years. Pretty soon the band now titled 'Flip Zippo'were performing original material, playing the clubs in and around Southampton and Portsmouth and had developed a large following.
After Years of touring and recording Flip Zippo finally split in 2000. Martin then took the opportunity to further his studies in Music. After completing a diploma in Jazz studies at Chichester College, Martin was accepted on the BMus Jazz program at London's prestigious Trinity College of Music.
Whilst attending Trinity Martin was fortunate enough to study with some of the finest musicians in the country including guitarists: Phil Robson, Mike Outram and Dave Cliff. Saxophonists Julien Arguilles and Jean Tussant, aswell as composer and arranger Paul Bartholemew. It was during this time that Martin developed his love of improvised music, African Soukous and Highlife and English and American Fingerstyle techniques.
After graduating from Trinty College with a 'First Class' Honors Degree as well as recieving the 'Montagu Cleeve guitar prize' the 'TCM Friends in New York prize' and the 'TCM trust silver medal for Jazz studies' Martin now lives and works in London as a professional Guitarist, Composer, Arranger and Music Teacher.
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Martin Kolarides: Session Guitarist for Jazz Blues Rock Pop and Folk based in London, composer arranger teacher and workshop leader.