Martin led the symphony before construction of the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, and the orchestra often performed in local hotels and churches, Lisa Owens, a former MSO tubist, told the News.

"Jerry began the change where the Maui Symphony began to make a name for itself," she told the News, citing guest performances by Russian pianist Alexi Sutanov and jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis. "Before, we would play just a few concerts a year. Jerry put some glamour in it."

Martin played the French horn for the orchestra for seven years before taking the role of assistant conductor for the 1985-86 season. After one season, he was then promoted to conductor and musical director.