Mark Benda

Mark's journey began with the French horn in 4th grade, followed by bass in 7th grade. He took up bass because he wanted to play jazz and rock. With French horn as his major instrument, he attended Shenandoah College and Conservatory of Music and holds a Bachelor of Music Education, while in college he played in the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, The Shenandoah Singers, and numerous musicals. During the summer of 1983 he traveled across the country performing with The Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps. While in college he also performed with The Maryland Symphony and Harrisburg Symphony on French horn. He also played with The Bill Dayton Big Band and Bobby Mercer Road Show on bass. After college he was the band director at Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf MD. He made the decision to join the Army and was in The US Army Band at Ft. Meade MD from 1988 to 1992. After spending 4 years in the Army he returned to teaching music at Hancock Jr/Sr High School in Hancock MD. Mark made the decision to leave teaching and went into the school textbook industry where he owns his own business today. He took some time away from music to support his family and 2 sons' especially their travel ice hockey endeavors. Since returning to the music seen he’s performed with the Potomac Playmakers, Maryland Theatre Ensemble, and the Elvis tribute band The Spins Outs. Mark is thrilled to be back full-time bringing his experience and passion to the country/southern rock sound.