m.sp8@yahoo.com
Mark began learning to play the organ aged 11 in 1981 after being inspired todo so after hearing Phil Kelsall, Robert Wolfe and Nick Martin play the Tower Ballroom Wurlitzer in his home-town of Blackpool.
Just two days after his 16th birthday in 1986, Mark played his first sessions for dancing on The Tower Ballroom Wurlitzer. This was a great start to his musical career. Many years playing on the UK electronic organ concert circuit followed together with many summer seasons in Blackpool backing shows with a drummer. Mark became well known on the organ concert scene and was often featured on Radio 2’s ‘The Organist Entertains’.
Aged 32 in 2002 with marriage and children planned, Mark decided to change career and commenced work and training to be an accountant. This largely came to a close in 2013 although, Mark still undertakes accountancy work for family and friends. During his years working full-time in accountancy, Mark attained the AAT and ACCA accounting qualifications in 2004 and 2008 respectively. In 2013, Mark attained his fellowship of The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.
2013 saw Mark return to full-time organ playing as a member of the team of organists at Blackpool Tower Ballroom and a local entertainment venue. At the time of writing (spring 2024), circumstances have allowed for Mark to return to what he loves doing best, performing organ concerts.
Mark is available for concerts and dances all over the UK on theatre organs or with his own Yamaha Stagea ELC-02.