Daniel Martinez’s And Jarana

August 2nd, 2024

When Daniel Martinez was a teenager, his family spent a lot of time in church. One day, his mother insisted he play the guitar for the church service. Although he felt a bit pressured, this experience became an important part of his musical journey. His passion for the guitar grew from that moment and led to his first public performance.

Despite his love for music, Martinez studied accounting in Peru. He later came to the United States to pursue a master’s degree and a doctorate but soon realized he could make music his career. A few years later, he became a full-time professional musician.

Now living in Lincoln, Nebraska, Martinez participates in various events, collaborates with other musicians, teaches, and directs Jarana, a musical group he describes as a mix of rhythms from many cultures. He sees all his performances as joyful and energetic, with his audience almost always moving to the rhythm of his music.

Since the Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival started in 2019, Martinez has been a part of it. The 2024 festival begins this Sunday. Jarana is scheduled to perform on Thursday, August 8, at the Lakeside Pavilion at The Riverfront. Martinez promises they won’t disappoint the audience.

For more information about Jarana’s performance or the Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival, visit nebraskamusicfest.org.