Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Van Sickle.
Mark, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Began playing the trumpet professionally at the age of 15. Attended Carnegie-Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) on a performance scholarship. Transferred to the University of North Texas where I was the first recipient of the Stan Kenton Performance Scholarship. Performed and recorded with the One O’Clock Lab Band and played professionally around the DFW area. Moved to Los Angeles to tour and record with Ray Charles. While in Los Angeles performed and recorded with Oscar-nominated Motown producer and bandleader Gil Askey, formed my first band and began writing, arranging, contracting, arranging and producing original music. Moved back to the DFW area where I continued to work as a musician, writer, contractor, arranger and producer. Took over the band now currently known as the DFW Musickmakers.
Has it been a smooth road?
Not always. New technology and many other entertainment options have greatly reduced opportunities for recording and live performances.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mark Van Sickle Music – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
The DFW MusicMakers Band was formally operated by a drummer friend of mine (known as Russ Dorsey’s Musicmakers). I began working with his band in 2010. He became seriously ill in 2014 and was unable to perform, at which time I became the on the job band leader. After he passed in July 2015, I assisted his wife in keeping the band working. In September 2016 I took over all operations of the band. My initial goal was to maintain the existing performance schedule of the band and to increase the band’s number of performances from year to year (in addition to my own work outside of the band). I have accomplished this. The primary market has been the ballroom dance scene in the Dallas area. I am proud of the fact that my band is now known to be by far the best in this particular market. What sets us apart is the band’s level of musicianship, my selections of new material and attention to detail. My goal for 2018 is to continue to grow the market for the DFW MusicMakers and create a separate band where I can perform my own original material along with specifically targeted songs.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
There are so many bests about Dallas. The museums, restaurants, arts, entertainment. All are world class. Second to none. And, U.T. Southwestern Medical at Dallas is known internationally for leading the way in cutting-edge medicine and technology. Most of their graduates stay in the DFW area, assuring that we have the best in medical care throughout the region. And the skyline. As a small boy, I was always fascinated by the many tall buildings in downtown Pittsburgh. What I like least is the traffic, however, I still remember my ten years of living in Los Angeles. So for me, not much to complain about.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.markvansicklemusic.com
- Phone: 817-939-9500
- Email: mark@markvansicklemusic.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/mark.d.vansickle
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
