Charles Martinez, who died in 1874, was most remarkable for proficiency in performance upon a great number of instruments,—being an artistic guitarist and violinist, a player upon the contra-bass,—and was also a good singer. Being of an ambitious turn of mind, Mr. Martinez studied, without a teacher, to become a notary-public, and was appointed as such.
Professor Thomas Martin was at a time one of the first musicians of New Orleans and of Louisiana, being without an equal as a guitarist, was a great performer on the violin and piano-forte, and played even other instruments. He was also a fine vocalist, a ready and good composer, and was much celebrated for abilities in teaching music. A fine-looking man, very agreeable and gentlemanly in his manners, Professor Martin soon won his way against all obstacles, and became the favorite musical instructor not only of those of his own race, but also of many persons connected with the most aristocratic white families of New Orleans and its vicinity. This once talented musician is now no more; he having died some years ago in Europe, as I am informed.
Octave Piron was once very prominent as an excellent vocalist and guitarist. He devotes his attention now more to the contra-bass, upon which instrument he is regarded as a good performer.
J.M. Holland is a young man who gives much promise of becoming an excellent pianist.
And thus I might go on and on, mentioning name after name, and achievement after achievement; but warned by the great number of pages already devoted to these praiseworthy musical people of New Orleans, and believing that enough has been presented to serve the object had in view when these notices were begun, I will shortly close this record.
As a sample of the concerts frequently given in New Orleans by amateur musicians of the colored race, I append this programme of one lately given:—
