Mark comes from a family of music hall artistes. Growing up in West London he started to learn the Bass Guitar aged 14. He was then encouraged to take up the Double Bass by a local music teacher, and went on to study at the RCM.

Before joining the CBSO in 1982 Mark freelanced in London playing both classical and jazz. He has retained links to the jazz world and regularly appears with leading UK musicians and visiting players from the USA. Mark is a founder member of El Ultimo Tango and has also created several of his own ensembles such as Ellingtonia Septet and Broad St Breakdown. He also writes and arranges music for CBSO education projects including Project Remix.

In terms of highlights during his time with the Orchestra Mark says "I enjoy playing Rhythm and Electric Bass on CBSO Friday night shows. But nothing can take the place of being part of an 8 bass section in a symphony orchestra playing full volume!"