Born and raised in a small Georgia town, Mark
started his musical journey at an early age - learning to play the
piano at the age of 10. Being the son of a southern Baptist minister,
attending church and listening to traditional gospel hymns became a
lifestyle that he would follow for years to come. His Dad pastored
several churches during those early years, and Mark took upon the
responsibility of being church pianist on several occasions.
At the age of 14, Mark was already playing for his first quartet,
"The Samaritans". With this singing group he gained firsthand experience to
the many aspects of being involved in southern gospel music and
quickly learned the meaning of commitment and dedication - qualities
that he would need in persuing a life-long desire to play gospel
music. He also got his first experience in a recording studio. The
Samaritans recorded two projects - a "45" single record and an "LP".
(Remember those?)
Mark strongly believes that his talent for playing piano is God-given,
and his hearts desire is to use that talent for the Lord. A vessel to
be a blessing - to inspire and uplift those that may have an
opportunity to hear his music.
Over the years, Mark has been privileged to be the pianist for
several churches and singing
groups. For the past 12 years he has been playing keyboard for "Cross
Connection" in Knoxville, TN
