DICK MARTIN

        Dick Martin began playing the plectrum banjo in 1968, when his father, Ralph Martin, started the Southern California Banjo Band. Dick took lessons for about a year and soon afterwards began playing professionally in the Los Angeles area. Playing experiences included engagements at pizza parlors such as Shakey’s and Straw Hat, night clubs, Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, and Universal City Studios. He participated in recordings by the Southern California Banjo Band, the Peninsula Banjo Band in San Jose, California, and most recently, the Sacramento Banjo Band.