Mark began playing both french horn and trumpet being mainly self taught and influenced by Jazz and Classical music in school.

While still in high school, Mark was awarded the lead trumpet position in the Massachusets All State Jazz Band. He continued his studies while attending Colgate University, where he was lead trumpet in the Colgate Jazz Band and played french horn in the Colgate Symphony.

Notably, Mark played lead trumpet in Bob Hope's pit band for a national TV show.

He enjoys doing freelance work with various Jazz groups and playing in Dinner Theatre Orchestras.