Mark Taylor

In 2001 Mark retired as chief arranger for The United States Army Band ("Pershing's Own"), where he was on staff for 24 years. During that time, he composed extensively for the Army Blues, writing all of the material for their album A New Beginning and much of the material for Scream Machine. His arrangements and compositions have been performed by the US Army Blues throughout the world including concerts at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland.

Prior to joining the Army, Mark was fortunate to write for Stan Kenton who recorded many of his compositions and also gave him his start in music publishing. He has a large publishing portfolio and has influenced thousands of student musicians, many of whom were first exposed to big band jazz through his music.

Mark is the arranger and producer of the Hal Leonard Play-along Series which to date numbers over 175 books for young and experienced improvisors.

He has produced and arranged 2 cd’s of his music with drummer Steve Fidyk. Their Taylor/Fidyk Big Band cd’s have been met with rave reviews.

“Their CD is powerful, fresh, & honest...the playing is superlative and the writing is great. Mark Taylor, Steve Fidyk & company are indeed a “Perfect Match.” – Peter Erskine

"The Taylor/Fidyk Big Band is a well-rehearsed, powerful big band. Mark Taylor's arrangements and Steve Fidyk's drumming spark excitement throughout the entire cd." -Louie Bellson

His latest recording titled “To the Edge” -Mark Taylor & the BigBand explores Mark’s 45 year fascination with the sound of a big Band. 18 jazz musicians who come together to play in a cohesive and effortless manner with an emphasis on “swinging”! Available at cdbaby.com.

Mark is a highly regarded clinician presenting many workshops on arranging for the jazz band and has served as conductor for many all-state jazz bands.

He is a graduate of the University of North Texas with bachelors and master's degrees in music.

Mark is currently a staff arranger for Hal Leonard Corporation and resides in Calabash, NC