Jo-han Martinez merges the worlds of academia and melody, demonstrating a profound talent in piano playing that has resonated since his middle school days.

The Finance major’s musical journey began after fifth grade, when curiosity led him to a family-owned electric keyboard. 

“I remember we had an electric keyboard somewhere in our storage room. I plugged it in one day, went to town on it, and here I am now,” Martinez said.

His repertoire is electric. Martinez’s admiration for classical music is profound, though he doesn’t shy away from mainstream or niche genres. Among his wide-ranging influences are classical icons, rock legends like Jerry Lee Lewis, and contemporary composers such as Michael Giacchino and Hans Zimmer. Despite his diverse taste, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” holds a special place in his heart.

Martinez’s talent has not gone unnoticed. He has participated in high school talent shows at Munster High School, securing third place during his senior year with a medley of rock and roll classics. 

Balancing music with academic responsibilities is a challenge Martinez embraces. 

“I do tend to focus on it more than I do my academic life, which is something I am working on,” he admitted.

Martinez began teaching himself after the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted formal lessons. He relies on ear and hand-eye coordination to master new pieces.

Looking forward, Martinez aspires to share his music with a broader audience and enhance his social interactions through performances. 

“I do want to play for more people and be a little more sociable,” he said