About Mark
Mark first began taking lessons at age eleven under the tutelage of Carole Birch, a neighborhood piano teacher who thought out of her basement. He quickly advanced and in no time was writing music of his own, performing at school and recitals to the astonishment of his listeners. In high school, Mark excelled as percussionist in the concert band while continuing to write works for the piano and small ensembles, many of which are featured in his 1997 album, 'Hometown'

He continue his musical education at Macalester College in St. Paul, MN where he studied music theory, music history, composition, and piano performance. There he studied under Don Betts, who eagerly took on Mark's raw talent with the intent of fine-tuning his skills and musicality.   In 2002, Mark released his holiday album, 'the rose 'midst winder's cold', which presented its listeners with a soft and relaxing refuge from the otherwise frenetic frenzy of holiday happenings.

Acquiring wisdom
Although Mark has been giving piano lessons since he was in high school, it wasn’t until a couple years ago that he realized he could earn his living from teaching.  He began by asking family friends and neighbors.  read more