PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Pat Martino, a Philadelphia jazz guitar legend, has died.
"I lost a dear friend, someone who was so thoughtful and caring," said Mark De Ninno, the owner of Chris' Jazz House in Center City.
Known for his quick & stealthy guitar chops, Martino was also known for his kind heart to match. He died after battling a chronic respiratory disorder.
According to his website, Martino's career pathway included recordings with Stanley Clarke, Woody Herman, Michael McDonald and Phoebe Snow among an exhaustively long list of top-flight artists.
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De Ninno said Martino was family to everyone in Philly’s jazz scene.
"When Pat would come and play every Thanksgiving weekend for 22 years, it was more of a family reunion," said De Ninno.
Born Patrick C. Azzara in Philly, Martino was introduced to jazz by his father & began playing guitar at 12.
Despite his battles with health, De Ninno said his longtime friend was as much an optimist as he was a guitar virtuoso.
"Just his attitude and optimism from losing part of his brain, and having to teach himself how to play the guitar again."
And Martino never looked back.
"The way he spoke through his instrument and told stories, I think that’s what’s going to really hang on in Philadelphia," said De Ninno.
"On to his next journey. I’m sure he’s sitting right next to the big guy playing guitar for him."
Martino died November 1. He was 77 years old.
