I would to just wish my deepest condolences to the Fierro family. Martin was an amazing person who blessed us with his many talents, and the wonderful music he gave us. He always made me laugh, and he sure had expensive tastes in tequila. My memories of him and his music will always live on in my heart and soul and I’m sure countless others as well
It is with a heavy hart we extend our blessings to the Fierro family. We will remember Martin forever. You helped us more then you know find the right path in life. Thank you for all the times you were there for us. Thank you for everything, each and every note. Telefunken | USA has made a donation in your memory and wants to help in any way. Sending all of our love to you & your family. Your #1 fan, May Zero music live forever!
I thought Martin was a great musician during his time. I have created a tribute for him at http://www.respectance.com/Fierro. I would like you to contribute your compassion and love as more as possible to remember him.
It is with great sadness that I read in a GD ticket email post that the great Martin has passed away. From the Legion of Mary shows back in the mid ’70s, to the on stage antics with John Cipollina, to the endless jams of Zero, he was always there, full of life.
Martin and I had a mutual intrest, our old Volvo 164e’s, a car few people appreciate, but he and I.
I think I will go sit in mine, put a tape in of him and John, and I suspect tears will flow freely…..as they ae now…
I guess my grandfather put it best, while commenting on the death of my father “Jason, there it is. The circle of life”.
And that’s it.
Alot of folks go on about how Charlie Parker or Miles were their prophets…but Martin Fierro really channeled alot of what ‘is’ good out there in the cosmos.
….some people come into your life and change the way you look at music and life…Meester did that to me and some of my friends from Oklahoma and I’ll never forget his sweetness, heart, humor and inspiration…fly on, Meester, you were one of a kind—LOVE, LOVE, LOVE–Pryor
As we look back on our memories of Meester, our thoughts have turned to our wedding back in June of 1997. Barry Melton performed the service; when he asked if anyone could think of any reason why we shouldn’t be married, Martin, true to form, acted like he was going to say something (he didn’t). Later, when Mike’s best man (his brother Greg) was about to give the toast, Martin told everyone in attendance to chut up and, when the toast was over, insisted that the groom make a speech. Not only that, Martin caught the garter. Sure enough, he and Lisa got married not long after.
i loved martin and i will miss him. on april 19th my friend scotty is doing a tribute to him at the blues cafe in long beach and all the money will go to his family.
peace in you eternal
for Martin Fierro March 16, 2008
Hearing the world’s saxophone moan
takes on a whole new meaning
now that you’re gone.
Hear that wind blow and your song is carried on
like Wavy Gravy’s primordial rant,
your music rising up from the bubble of the inferno
transporting us lost and tired souls,
up into heaven to dance and play–
all is white for a moment
and peace be among you.
Hear the wind carrying your saxophone’s moan,
loss for us all, the mourning comes and goes
world still spinning, you playing up in heaven
listen for the voice and it’s right there in the wind
Great Spirit moaning for us all,
may peace be among us all
and may peace by among you.
Thanks for shining the love through all the hard times you shared with us on your life’s journey. It was always a pleasure hearing your music put some air under our wings to help us fly.
Dear Jessica, I am so sorry that your Dad died. My heart has been missing him since I heard the news. You are so brave and strong Jessica. As you know, your Daddy loved you dearly, and he was so proud of you! As I was reading through old e-mails from and I came across this one, and decided to share it with you. I had just sent your Dad a funny video of me and my boys and our dog Maggie dressed up as Elves and dancing to Jingle Bells! Then he sent me the one that you two made. I inquired about how you were doing…keep singing and playing the piano Jessica, I look forward to hearing you play someday!
Hugs!
Kem
Martin Wrote:
she’s well , we have a great time when we are together , she’s learning beatle songs on the piano and singing all kinds of songs that she likes, thank god for our kids…..we’d be chit without them…………..love ya’ m
There will be a memorial benefit concert in Southern California on Friday April 18 at the Blue Cafe, 210 The Promenade, Long Beach, CA.
The event will feature Cubensis and the Maykers returning some of the love that Martin has shown all of us throughout the years. All proceeds will go towards a college fund for his youngest daughter Jessica.
I am so sad to hear of Martine’s passing. He blessed so many lives with his music, humour, warmth and will be greatly missed. He was one of the kindest musicians I was ever honored to work with. I’m sure that they will be as happy to see him on the other side of the rainbow as we were to have him here.
My blessings to the family.
AnnaRizzo
I just got a phone call from Jimmy Stallings, former bass player with the Sir Douglas Quintet, who told me that Martin had passed away. I am in utter shock. I first met Martin back in 1968 through my good friend, Doug Sahm. I have never known a more soulful musician in my life. Martin was a brilliant sax player, who infused his playing with such warmth and feeling. He was also a wonderful person. Whenever I flew out to San Francisco on Mercury Records business, I would always look Martin up. We spent many hours together. As I recall, he lived in a small house just off Army Street. In all my years in the music business, I don’t know if I ever met anyone as unique as Martin. May God Bless You. Ron Oberman
It was an honor and a privilege to meet and perform with Martin in January at the Mystic and the Independent. He clearly touched a lot of lives with his music. Big Respect from The New Mastersounds (UK)
As you are now one with the great spirit. I will remember you as the leaves rustle and spring unfolds to summer.While the sun shines on the brown hills during a lazy Marin or Cazadero afternoon, I will play for you. I will leave the place where we came to grieve. It all meant so much to me then. You stared me down. I never got to say how much I loved you and how much I cared. I think you know your in my heart. I lost the shaker you gave me on my birthday to some wolves. There is no more pain or suffering for you now. There is no more poverty. You are on the wind, in the sea and upon the grass. I will think of you.
I first met Martin at the Ally Cat jazz club in El Pas in 1963. His bassist was Eddy Adams. Later, in California I hooked up with him when I played keyboards and guitar with Doug Sahm, from by hometown of San Antonio.
Martin and I recorded and play gigs with Doug as the Honky Blues Band. Martin could play two bars of identical music with 50 other saxaphonists and in 1 bar I could pick out Martin. His tone and “bite” was immediately. identifiable.
At times, Martin called me to play gigs with The Shades of Joy and I would be 2nd guitaristt to Jackie King. Eddy Adams was still the bassist! Occasionaly, Martin would call me to play with him at “throw together gigs” in Marin County. Merl Saunders, Jerry Garcia, Tom Fogerty, Snooky Flowers…depending on availability and who was in off the road.No rehearsal - just go do the gig. After many years,I had just made contact with Martin in Feb. and he is already gone.His tone is always in my mind.
Hewlett Crist
I just heard of your passing Martin, I was at Chuck Day Day in fairfax. I want to express my sorrow in your passing and fond memories of living in the same neighborhood in San Anselmo I remember you whistling to call your children. and when Raphael and Jeremy Melsh ran away the day of the big fire. I remember how through the births of your children you caried them thru the neighborhood with such pride. I was the neighborhood babysiter you never needed and one of your proud groupies when I was finally old enough to go to your shows. I send my love to your children and am gratefull for having known what a wonderful loving dad you were and always will be. Via Con Dios
Carol Tabarracci
In the 80’s this guy named Alberto, hung out with a whole scene of us (in Palo Alto).
One day we learned he had to return to his native home (maybe Nicaragua). His friends invited me to a jam that day. It all took place in an empty parking lot south of Market. It was called the ‘Berto Jam. The whole thing lasted all day. We Had a BBQ and some guitars and drums and a bass, and a Sax.
Halfway through the day the Saxophone player was talking to me. He was so cool. He realized I did not know who he was, so while we talked I learned that I’d been jamming with Martin Fierro. He told me about some of his work, and playing with Garcia. It was something he was proud of for sure.
What a cool guy….Thanks for the chance to post my small recollection.
We are all sooo lucky to have his music to listen to and share. From about 1 minute 10 seconds into the song Golden Road on “Here Goes Nothin”…thats what its all about…and all the other intense great music he played!
What a lucky man to have so many friends and fans that loved him,…
Now he is up there with Jerry….it must sound better than ever up there.
I am in England at the moment, and have just heard the news that Martin passed away. I had spoken with him on the phone just before I boarded the plane for London. He had only recently been told he had cancer and he was gearing up for an intense course of treatment, but sadly it was not enough. Goodbye old friend, compadre. You fought hard, and now you are at rest. We had many happy times together on the road with Zero; your musicianship and crazy sense of humor kept us all on our toes, onstage and off. Your wonderful music has left the world a better place, and has given many people much happiness.
Till we meet again.
Pete Sears
i am a friend, and a friend of tom bockman. I am also a listener and lover of martins music for many years. i got to hang out with martin a few times. for those close to him you might remember a live show in cupertino at a bar called paul and eddies. this was a culmination of effort, the spirt of music and the love of tom bockman. just wanted to say that martin will always be love and remembered. he left people with a longing for his musical guide to bliss!
Martin~ You’ll be missed but your music and presence will live on through your music and through all those whom you touched. I was lucky enough to see you play twice in 2007 and it will go down as a celebration of life, laughter and music.
Rest in Peace My Friend~ Keep the sax close by……. blow it sweetly from time to time so we all can hear!
…A superb musician, that i never see on stage, is passed away, i discovered Martin in company of Jerry and Merl at the Keystone or with “the legion of Mary”, 20 years ago…
And the news of his start for the limbo, give me a real thrill…Thank you, Mister Fierro, your joy of living have cross the ocean…
C’est la vie, et vous lui avez fait honneur,ma gratitude pour votre musique et votre bonne humeur, mes respects.
A unknown french music lover.
Ah . . . Martin . . .An inspiration to so many and a delight to all!
A man born to entertain. Generous in so many ways. I was lucky enough to have known him for about 30 years and I’ve always considered him a friend.
One day, many years ago, I was at his home and I admired a little chrome sculpture that he had. He said “its yours” and gave it to me. I still have the sculpture and when I look at it, it reminds me how Martin danced through his life showering us all with the gift of his music, his love and his warmth and humor.
I had just spoken with Martin in February. He said that he was not feeling so well, our conversation was cut short.
Martin was my mentor, my saxophone teacher, most of all my friend. We played together for years with the Ned Endless Band. The following days after the gigs I would try to mimic his licks, although, it was his unforgetable, and unique tone that I could never reproduce. We would sit and talk for hours about Selmer Mark VI horns, he even helped me pick out my first Berg Larsen metal mouthpiece. Then he showed me which reeds to use, I feel indebted to him forever, for taking the the he spent with me. He was a humanitarian,Father,friend,and an incredible musician.
One night after playing with the Mother Hips, My friend Robert Holtz informed me that My tone reminded him of Martin. It was the highest honor for me.
My heart goes out to his surviving family, he will surely be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him, and his music.
When we spoke his last words to me were, ” I love you.”
I love you too Martin, God Bless, rest in peace my friend.”
Love Jeremy
Martin ‘Meester’ Fierro ~ A truly great horn player with a very funny, likable personality!
I met Meester at a Zero show in Cincinnati Ohio (1997 East Coast Tour); we talked for a few minutes about his tenure with Legion of Mary. I said to Marteen, “why don’t you play flute that much anymore”. He replied, “I am getting too old; the flute keys are too close together and my hands and fingers start to ache”. We both had a big laugh together and the rest is history.
I am saddened by the loss of Martin, and send my condolences to his friends and family. Man, Martin could blow the coolest sounds and added a lot of talent to the best psychedelic bands around.
We lost one of our hero’s. We were grateful to have known such a generous man. It’s so hard to put into words what some people mean to you. From his knuckleheaded jokes to his sincere friendship. He was a transporter of good vibes, through his horn and speech. Thank you Meester for a GREAT RIDE!!! Love ED and D
I am completely blown away by the news of my friend Martin’s passing. I though that Martin would live forever (like me!). Please accept my deep sympathy - we will all miss this beautiful soul. May God grant you peace.
Still thinking about Martin, his spirit and his life and his music. I rented the movie “Cisco Pike”, just to see him on screen. Then this morning I found the clip on youtube. The very tall young guy in the background holding his saxaphone…it’s only a few seconds, but it’s so Meester, even at that young age. I had to laugh and smile thinking about him.
Here’s the url for those who want to peep it:
6 4 08 god bless you martin,sir all bay area music fans loved your music and always will !! god bless your daughter jessica- pete sears-talked to you before he left for england! i love him 2 all your friends in the bay area that you made music with ! the benefits @ free concerts too !! any photos from latest to recent i can get from them of you playing live on stage ? we always help out eachother ! thanks,cheers a friens of yiours too… i don.t know a lot-but i know who you were and that says a lot! steve ringstad 1343 leecrest wichita,ks 67209 peace and love,sir you will always be a ‘volunteer of america’ !!! (i’ll always love hippie Minstrels !)
On our way back from my first JGB concert almost 20 yrs ago, I dozed off in my buddie’s car and woke up to the sound of a music that I connected with like no other; it was The Legion of Mary, and it was, though unbeknownst to me at the time, Martin’s playing which differentiated the LoM from all other music I was turned onto.
Deep thanks to Martin for the music he created for his fans, and my deepest sympathy for his family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Martin was a true friend and will be sorely missed. I am really sorry I lost contact with him. He was always one of my favorite people. He was always to wonderful to be around..so happy and always laughing.
What a wonderful tribute to Meester this past Friday night at the Fillmore! Martin’s saxophone in it’s stand at his place on the stage, while his many friends and fellow musicians played tribute to to fill the void in our hearts left by his passing…
Many thanks to all who had a hand in putting together this memorial!
Now…CHUTUP!
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I would to just wish my deepest condolences to the Fierro family. Martin was an amazing person who blessed us with his many talents, and the wonderful music he gave us. He always made me laugh, and he sure had expensive tastes in tequila. My memories of him and his music will always live on in my heart and soul and I’m sure countless others as well
wharfratpat
It is with a heavy hart we extend our blessings to the Fierro family. We will remember Martin forever. You helped us more then you know find the right path in life. Thank you for all the times you were there for us. Thank you for everything, each and every note. Telefunken | USA has made a donation in your memory and wants to help in any way. Sending all of our love to you & your family. Your #1 fan, May Zero music live forever!
“Its time to bake a short snake….”
Martin, Thanks for all of the years, the good times, from seeing you in Legion to those wonderful years with Steve and Zero.
And thanks for allowing me to tell you ‘to go fuck yourself’ as you had encouraged the crowd at the Grammercy Theater last April 20 in NYC.
You played beautifuly that evening. That will be how I remember you. Self effacing humor, a heart of gold and one helluva musician.
I thought Martin was a great musician during his time. I have created a tribute for him at http://www.respectance.com/Fierro. I would like you to contribute your compassion and love as more as possible to remember him.
I will always remember Martin as a warm and positive person who always made strangers feel welcome, esp with that sense of humor.
Condolences to his family and friends and fans
Goodbye Meester!
It is with great sadness that I read in a GD ticket email post that the great Martin has passed away. From the Legion of Mary shows back in the mid ’70s, to the on stage antics with John Cipollina, to the endless jams of Zero, he was always there, full of life.
Martin and I had a mutual intrest, our old Volvo 164e’s, a car few people appreciate, but he and I.
I think I will go sit in mine, put a tape in of him and John, and I suspect tears will flow freely…..as they ae now…
8+(
Best regards Martin….
Bill Marriott
Woodacre, Marin County
Fare thee well my friend- I’ll miss you and celebrate you ALWAYS!!!!! LOVE_ LOVE_LOVE CHIEF
Goodbye Martin.
You may have left the room but your music, your light, your love will forever remain in my heart.
Dan
We discovered Martin far too late, but in this regretfully short time our lives have been blessed by his gifts.
I guess my grandfather put it best, while commenting on the death of my father “Jason, there it is. The circle of life”.
And that’s it.
Alot of folks go on about how Charlie Parker or Miles were their prophets…but Martin Fierro really channeled alot of what ‘is’ good out there in the cosmos.
Sleep in the stars!
….some people come into your life and change the way you look at music and life…Meester did that to me and some of my friends from Oklahoma and I’ll never forget his sweetness, heart, humor and inspiration…fly on, Meester, you were one of a kind—LOVE, LOVE, LOVE–Pryor
As we look back on our memories of Meester, our thoughts have turned to our wedding back in June of 1997. Barry Melton performed the service; when he asked if anyone could think of any reason why we shouldn’t be married, Martin, true to form, acted like he was going to say something (he didn’t). Later, when Mike’s best man (his brother Greg) was about to give the toast, Martin told everyone in attendance to chut up and, when the toast was over, insisted that the groom make a speech. Not only that, Martin caught the garter. Sure enough, he and Lisa got married not long after.
We’ll miss you, Meester
Beth & Mike
i loved martin and i will miss him. on april 19th my friend scotty is doing a tribute to him at the blues cafe in long beach and all the money will go to his family.
peace in you eternal
for Martin Fierro March 16, 2008
Hearing the world’s saxophone moan
takes on a whole new meaning
now that you’re gone.
Hear that wind blow and your song is carried on
like Wavy Gravy’s primordial rant,
your music rising up from the bubble of the inferno
transporting us lost and tired souls,
up into heaven to dance and play–
all is white for a moment
and peace be among you.
Hear the wind carrying your saxophone’s moan,
loss for us all, the mourning comes and goes
world still spinning, you playing up in heaven
listen for the voice and it’s right there in the wind
Great Spirit moaning for us all,
may peace be among us all
and may peace by among you.
to the family - i’m so sorry. it’s so hard to let someone go.
to the spirit of martin: simply…thank you.
Martin, you are a great inspiration on how to lead a purposeful and spirited life.
Thank you for your many contributions and gifts to the community. WE love you always.
William Chinnock,
Berkeley, CA
Thanks for shining the love through all the hard times you shared with us on your life’s journey. It was always a pleasure hearing your music put some air under our wings to help us fly.
Dear Jessica, I am so sorry that your Dad died. My heart has been missing him since I heard the news. You are so brave and strong Jessica. As you know, your Daddy loved you dearly, and he was so proud of you! As I was reading through old e-mails from and I came across this one, and decided to share it with you. I had just sent your Dad a funny video of me and my boys and our dog Maggie dressed up as Elves and dancing to Jingle Bells! Then he sent me the one that you two made. I inquired about how you were doing…keep singing and playing the piano Jessica, I look forward to hearing you play someday!
Hugs!
Kem
Martin Wrote:
she’s well , we have a great time when we are together , she’s learning beatle songs on the piano and singing all kinds of songs that she likes, thank god for our kids…..we’d be chit without them…………..love ya’ m
I love him like a brother, I miss him. The few times our lives intersected were amazing.
My deepest condolences to the extended family, he loved everyone, and everyone loved him.
There will be a memorial benefit concert in Southern California on Friday April 18 at the Blue Cafe, 210 The Promenade, Long Beach, CA.
The event will feature Cubensis and the Maykers returning some of the love that Martin has shown all of us throughout the years. All proceeds will go towards a college fund for his youngest daughter Jessica.
More details on the show are available at http://www.cubensis.com or http://www.myspace.com/themaykers
i love you grandpa
On behalf of the entire Albanese family, please accept our deepest heartfelt condolences.
I am so sad to hear of Martine’s passing. He blessed so many lives with his music, humour, warmth and will be greatly missed. He was one of the kindest musicians I was ever honored to work with. I’m sure that they will be as happy to see him on the other side of the rainbow as we were to have him here.
My blessings to the family.
AnnaRizzo
I just got a phone call from Jimmy Stallings, former bass player with the Sir Douglas Quintet, who told me that Martin had passed away. I am in utter shock. I first met Martin back in 1968 through my good friend, Doug Sahm. I have never known a more soulful musician in my life. Martin was a brilliant sax player, who infused his playing with such warmth and feeling. He was also a wonderful person. Whenever I flew out to San Francisco on Mercury Records business, I would always look Martin up. We spent many hours together. As I recall, he lived in a small house just off Army Street. In all my years in the music business, I don’t know if I ever met anyone as unique as Martin. May God Bless You. Ron Oberman
It was an honor and a privilege to meet and perform with Martin in January at the Mystic and the Independent. He clearly touched a lot of lives with his music. Big Respect from The New Mastersounds (UK)
As you are now one with the great spirit. I will remember you as the leaves rustle and spring unfolds to summer.While the sun shines on the brown hills during a lazy Marin or Cazadero afternoon, I will play for you. I will leave the place where we came to grieve. It all meant so much to me then. You stared me down. I never got to say how much I loved you and how much I cared. I think you know your in my heart. I lost the shaker you gave me on my birthday to some wolves. There is no more pain or suffering for you now. There is no more poverty. You are on the wind, in the sea and upon the grass. I will think of you.
I first met Martin at the Ally Cat jazz club in El Pas in 1963. His bassist was Eddy Adams. Later, in California I hooked up with him when I played keyboards and guitar with Doug Sahm, from by hometown of San Antonio.
Martin and I recorded and play gigs with Doug as the Honky Blues Band. Martin could play two bars of identical music with 50 other saxaphonists and in 1 bar I could pick out Martin. His tone and “bite” was immediately. identifiable.
At times, Martin called me to play gigs with The Shades of Joy and I would be 2nd guitaristt to Jackie King. Eddy Adams was still the bassist! Occasionaly, Martin would call me to play with him at “throw together gigs” in Marin County. Merl Saunders, Jerry Garcia, Tom Fogerty, Snooky Flowers…depending on availability and who was in off the road.No rehearsal - just go do the gig. After many years,I had just made contact with Martin in Feb. and he is already gone.His tone is always in my mind.
Hewlett Crist
I just heard of your passing Martin, I was at Chuck Day Day in fairfax. I want to express my sorrow in your passing and fond memories of living in the same neighborhood in San Anselmo I remember you whistling to call your children. and when Raphael and Jeremy Melsh ran away the day of the big fire. I remember how through the births of your children you caried them thru the neighborhood with such pride. I was the neighborhood babysiter you never needed and one of your proud groupies when I was finally old enough to go to your shows. I send my love to your children and am gratefull for having known what a wonderful loving dad you were and always will be. Via Con Dios
Carol Tabarracci
In the 80’s this guy named Alberto, hung out with a whole scene of us (in Palo Alto).
One day we learned he had to return to his native home (maybe Nicaragua). His friends invited me to a jam that day. It all took place in an empty parking lot south of Market. It was called the ‘Berto Jam. The whole thing lasted all day. We Had a BBQ and some guitars and drums and a bass, and a Sax.
Halfway through the day the Saxophone player was talking to me. He was so cool. He realized I did not know who he was, so while we talked I learned that I’d been jamming with Martin Fierro. He told me about some of his work, and playing with Garcia. It was something he was proud of for sure.
What a cool guy….Thanks for the chance to post my small recollection.
We are all sooo lucky to have his music to listen to and share. From about 1 minute 10 seconds into the song Golden Road on “Here Goes Nothin”…thats what its all about…and all the other intense great music he played!
What a lucky man to have so many friends and fans that loved him,…
Now he is up there with Jerry….it must sound better than ever up there.
My prayers and blessings to the family.
Peace, Love and Music!
I am in England at the moment, and have just heard the news that Martin passed away. I had spoken with him on the phone just before I boarded the plane for London. He had only recently been told he had cancer and he was gearing up for an intense course of treatment, but sadly it was not enough. Goodbye old friend, compadre. You fought hard, and now you are at rest. We had many happy times together on the road with Zero; your musicianship and crazy sense of humor kept us all on our toes, onstage and off. Your wonderful music has left the world a better place, and has given many people much happiness.
Till we meet again.
Pete Sears
i am a friend, and a friend of tom bockman. I am also a listener and lover of martins music for many years. i got to hang out with martin a few times. for those close to him you might remember a live show in cupertino at a bar called paul and eddies. this was a culmination of effort, the spirt of music and the love of tom bockman. just wanted to say that martin will always be love and remembered. he left people with a longing for his musical guide to bliss!
Martin~ You’ll be missed but your music and presence will live on through your music and through all those whom you touched. I was lucky enough to see you play twice in 2007 and it will go down as a celebration of life, laughter and music.
Rest in Peace My Friend~ Keep the sax close by……. blow it sweetly from time to time so we all can hear!
…A superb musician, that i never see on stage, is passed away, i discovered Martin in company of Jerry and Merl at the Keystone or with “the legion of Mary”, 20 years ago…
And the news of his start for the limbo, give me a real thrill…Thank you, Mister Fierro, your joy of living have cross the ocean…
C’est la vie, et vous lui avez fait honneur,ma gratitude pour votre musique et votre bonne humeur, mes respects.
A unknown french music lover.
No matter how bad your day was…Martin could always make you smile, and smile he did. I’m so sad to hear he’s gone…Love You….O…chut up….
ooohh dad i miss ya………….never seen all these great comments.so many stories.
Your beautiful soul will live on in our souls. I love you, Martin.
Ah . . . Martin . . .An inspiration to so many and a delight to all!
A man born to entertain. Generous in so many ways. I was lucky enough to have known him for about 30 years and I’ve always considered him a friend.
One day, many years ago, I was at his home and I admired a little chrome sculpture that he had. He said “its yours” and gave it to me. I still have the sculpture and when I look at it, it reminds me how Martin danced through his life showering us all with the gift of his music, his love and his warmth and humor.
I had just spoken with Martin in February. He said that he was not feeling so well, our conversation was cut short.
Martin was my mentor, my saxophone teacher, most of all my friend. We played together for years with the Ned Endless Band. The following days after the gigs I would try to mimic his licks, although, it was his unforgetable, and unique tone that I could never reproduce. We would sit and talk for hours about Selmer Mark VI horns, he even helped me pick out my first Berg Larsen metal mouthpiece. Then he showed me which reeds to use, I feel indebted to him forever, for taking the the he spent with me. He was a humanitarian,Father,friend,and an incredible musician.
One night after playing with the Mother Hips, My friend Robert Holtz informed me that My tone reminded him of Martin. It was the highest honor for me.
My heart goes out to his surviving family, he will surely be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him, and his music.
When we spoke his last words to me were, ” I love you.”
I love you too Martin, God Bless, rest in peace my friend.”
Love Jeremy
Martin ‘Meester’ Fierro ~ A truly great horn player with a very funny, likable personality!
I met Meester at a Zero show in Cincinnati Ohio (1997 East Coast Tour); we talked for a few minutes about his tenure with Legion of Mary. I said to Marteen, “why don’t you play flute that much anymore”. He replied, “I am getting too old; the flute keys are too close together and my hands and fingers start to ache”. We both had a big laugh together and the rest is history.
I am saddened by the loss of Martin, and send my condolences to his friends and family. Man, Martin could blow the coolest sounds and added a lot of talent to the best psychedelic bands around.
We lost one of our hero’s. We were grateful to have known such a generous man. It’s so hard to put into words what some people mean to you. From his knuckleheaded jokes to his sincere friendship. He was a transporter of good vibes, through his horn and speech. Thank you Meester for a GREAT RIDE!!! Love ED and D
Dear Fierro Family:
I am completely blown away by the news of my friend Martin’s passing. I though that Martin would live forever (like me!). Please accept my deep sympathy - we will all miss this beautiful soul. May God grant you peace.
Love,
Doug
hi this is martins son rafael, if anyone was a close friend of my fathers please email me at martintribute@gmail.com.
Still thinking about Martin, his spirit and his life and his music. I rented the movie “Cisco Pike”, just to see him on screen. Then this morning I found the clip on youtube. The very tall young guy in the background holding his saxaphone…it’s only a few seconds, but it’s so Meester, even at that young age. I had to laugh and smile thinking about him.
Here’s the url for those who want to peep it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22E1ToIe42Y
Chut up!
6 4 08 god bless you martin,sir all bay area music fans loved your music and always will !! god bless your daughter jessica- pete sears-talked to you before he left for england! i love him 2 all your friends in the bay area that you made music with ! the benefits @ free concerts too !! any photos from latest to recent i can get from them of you playing live on stage ? we always help out eachother ! thanks,cheers a friens of yiours too… i don.t know a lot-but i know who you were and that says a lot! steve ringstad 1343 leecrest wichita,ks 67209 peace and love,sir you will always be a ‘volunteer of america’ !!! (i’ll always love hippie Minstrels !)
On our way back from my first JGB concert almost 20 yrs ago, I dozed off in my buddie’s car and woke up to the sound of a music that I connected with like no other; it was The Legion of Mary, and it was, though unbeknownst to me at the time, Martin’s playing which differentiated the LoM from all other music I was turned onto.
Deep thanks to Martin for the music he created for his fans, and my deepest sympathy for his family.
To the family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Martin was a true friend and will be sorely missed. I am really sorry I lost contact with him. He was always one of my favorite people. He was always to wonderful to be around..so happy and always laughing.
MY best to you all,
Hadley Caliman
much respect to the family, Love and Peace Brother - Normal Bean.
What a wonderful tribute to Meester this past Friday night at the Fillmore! Martin’s saxophone in it’s stand at his place on the stage, while his many friends and fellow musicians played tribute to to fill the void in our hearts left by his passing…
Many thanks to all who had a hand in putting together this memorial!
Now…CHUTUP!