The diverse music scene of St. Louis provided a lucrative and versatile music scene in which to develop as a musician. There were many sources to draw upon to cultivate a varied musical background, and Mark continues to work hard at becoming a well-rounded musician.

A professional drumming career began while in high school, subbing on various gigs for his very in-demand drumset teacher, Steve Davis (Lynne Arriale Trio, Bill Evans, John Patitucci). This led to a variety of work playing jazz and contemporary music in the thriving St. Louis music scene, with such notable musicians as Peter and Jim Mayer (Jimmy Buffet) and bassist Steve Kirby (Elvin Jones). While still attending high school and under the direction of outstanding band director Christopher Becker, he also played in Webster University's top jazz combo with saxophonist Todd Williams (Wynton Marsalis) and again with bassist Steve Kirby...as well as attending every possible music class offered in high school. Awards received during this time are the John Phillips Sousa Band Award, the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award, and several NAJE Outstanding Musician Awards from the many jazz band competitions. Elected band president his senior year of high school, Mark was also chosen as first-chair tympani in the Missouri All-State Band.