Martin Verdonk

Arnhem, Netherlands

Independent


Martin Verdonk was born in Curacao. He moved to the Netherlands with his parents in 1971, where he studied Latin percussion at the Rotterdam conservatory from 1982-1984.  Also having studied at the Conjunto Folklorico Nacional de Cuba in '86 '87 and '88, Martin's main influences and/or teachers are Giovanni Hidalgo, Lenny Castro, Luis Conte, Richie Flores, Mario Jaurequi, Roberto Viscaino, Paulinho da Costa and Ralph McDonald.

As an all around percussionist, Martin has worked with many of the leading bands and artists in the Netherlands, including Ilse DeLange, Doe Maar , Rob de Nijs , Paul de Leeuw, Ruth Jacott , and Tamara Maria.   Martin has also played, recorded or performed as guest with renowned international artists Lionel Richie , Chaka Khan , George Benson, George Duke, Donna Summer, En Vogue , Santana , Leonardo Amuedo, James Taylor , Prince, and Horacio"El Negro"Hernandez .

In addition to his touring, Martin Verdonk also currently teaches at the World Music Department of the Rotterdam Conservatory.  In 1995, he received the award for 'outstanding service to Jazz education in Los Angeles. The readers of the Dutch drum magazine 'Slagwerkkrant' choose Martin several times as best percussionist. He is also a well known clinician and percussion motivator.

Martin plays Tycoon Percussion’s Master Handcrafted Pinstripe Series Congas as they bring out the best in his unique talents.