Toledo area jazz vocalist Ellie Martin has an impressive resume. She has performed with jazz legends like Jon Hendricks, Claude Black and Clifford Murphy. She has trained with Peter Eldridge, Nathan Davis, Geri Allen and many others. But it was the lessons she learned as a mother that inspired her latest recording.
“Morning Glories is an album that captures my journey through mother- hood-its beauty, its chaos, and its deep well of love,” Martin explains, adding “Each song reflects different facets of my experience, from utter exhaustion of those early days (which inspired the song Shattered Snow) to the unexpected strength I found in vulnerability (the title track Morning Glories).”
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The album’s expected release is on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025 on all streaming platforms.
Martin will begin touring with her quartet in May to promote the album to audiences around the country.
“With Morning Glories, I want to challenge the idea that motherhood and artistry are at odds. Instead, I see them as intertwined, fueling each other in the most unexpected ways. My journey as a mother has made my art more honest, more vulnerable, and more meaningful. I hope my music resonates with other parents and artists who are navigating this balance, and I want them to know that their creativity doesn’t have to stop. It can evolve and grow in incredible ways.”
Creating harmony in everyday life
Martin tries to balance the many aspects of her career while celebrating the everyday moments of motherhood. “In addition to performing and writing music, I also teach at three schools, so I’ve had to get really good at prioritizing tasks,” she said. “My house is often a mess, but I’ve learned to be more accepting of getting done what I can in a day and letting go of perfection.”
Get to know Ellie Martin
Tell us about yourself!
I was born in Florida, but spent my early childhood in Portland, Oregon. In the 90’s, my family moved to Toledo when my mom got a job at the University of Toledo. We lived in Old Orchard, where I still live today. Education? I studied classical voice at McGill University, pursued my master’s degree in jazz performance at the University of Toledo, and later earned my PhD in Jazz Studies at the University of Pittsburgh.
Tell us about your family!
My family is full of love, music and a little bit of chaos! My husband, Olman Piedra, is a percussion professor at the University of Toledo, and music is a huge part of our lives. Together, we have two wonderful daughters, Luciana, 6, and Mariela, 4, who bring so much joy, curiosity and energy into our home. We also have a growing pack of three dogs. Are you a book person or a movie person? I’m definitely both! Dream vacation? A dream trip would be to Japan during cherry blossom season. Honestly, for me, a dream vacation has to involve food!
Favorite Toledo area restaurant?
I love Kengo. It’s absolutely delicious! The sushi is top notch, and I always look forward to a meal there.
Hidden talent?
I can ride a unicycle! Hobbies? I love traveling and watching movies.
Do you have a mom superpower?
I think being a mom is a superpower in itself! Balancing work, art and my kids’ needs all at once is no small feat. It’s a constant juggling act, and somehow, we make it work.
What do you like to do with the family on a day off?
I love spending time outside with my kids, especially walking around Ottawa Park, and letting them explore.
