Marty Laster
Marty was an accomplished violinist, author, and teacher. Throughout his career, he worked in the pit on various Broadway shows, and played in multiple bluegrass/swing bands (one of which, Wicker's Creek, featured a young Bela Fleck).
He wrote two instructional books for the publishing company Mel Bay. In the prime of his abilities, Marty composed and arranged an album called "Sound Mosaics" which featured a uniquely eclectic blend of swing, bluegrass, cajun, klezmer, and classical influence. People who had listened to his album had fallen in love with it for its highly original stylistic variety.
In the late 90's Marty developed Parkinson's disease, which caused a tremor and put an end to his gigging career. However, he still continued to teach privately, finding new creative outlets such as making sculptors, and writing new compositions.
Shortly before being diagnosed with cancer, he was able to get DBS treatment to treat his tremor. This allowed him to play like his old self before passing. His joyful spirit continues to live through the legacy of his music.
