Martin Hand began with Symphony of the Americas in 2001 when he was introduced to then Artistic Director, Maestro Brookes who was very familiar with Martin as a jazz artist, but very rarely used guitar in his orchestras.
 
Martin has been preforming for Symphony events, including special event gatherings, Society luncheons and fundraisers since. He has performed with the Symphonic Pops Orchestra of Boca Raton under Maestro Mark Azzolina from 1988, the Naples Philharmonic under conductor Eric Kunzel, the Philly Pops under the direction of Peter Nero, the Florida Philharmonic, also under the direction of Peter Nero, and the Palm Beach Pops under the direction of Bob Lappin.
 
In 2021, under the direction of new Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Pablo Mielgo, Martin performed with the orchestra for the first time on stage during its 2021-2022 season performance of ‘Holidays with the Symphony’.

“Performing with the Symphony on stage was such a wonderful experience as I believe this orchestra has been elevated to a world-class, professional performing group. As a guitar player, it is not common to get the opportunity to play with orchestras and I cherish every one of the musicians I am honored to perform with. I am very excited about my collaboration with Symphony of the Americas and look forward to joining their excellence on stage for many performances to come!” – Martin Hand