Artist Info

Mark Lynch, a DMA student at the Rudi E. Scheidt School of music in Memphis TN USA under the tutelage of Dr Michael Shults, specializes in jazz and classical saxophone performance, exploring its diverse roles on both South African and international stages. As a freelance saxophone teacher, he has shared his expertise in various music departments. Mark has a rich musical background, participating in competitions like Dubai 2020 and Bloemfontein 2022, and receiving masterclasses from renowned saxophonists such as Pawel Gusnar, Dr Mathew Lombard, Dr James Barger, and Byron Abrahams.

In 2019, Mark contributed to the release of an album with the jazz group, the New Voice Sextet. His current project, the Sun Quintet, emerged as the overall and category winners of the 2023 SU National Ensemble Competition. They were awarded best jazz album and best jazz song at the 2024 Mzantsi Jazz awards in South Africa, for their debut album, "Embrace the Path," in early 2024.

Mark's musical journey includes playing in wind bands, big bands, Saxophone duo, saxophone quartets, a variety of gig types from weddings to session work. He has also served as an ad hoc saxophonist for the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra in productions like Prokofiev's ballet "Romeo and Juliet" and collaborates with prominent Cape Jazz pianist Ramon Alexander. Notably, Mark contributed to the band for Pieter Toerien's 2023 Cape Town run of the Buddy Holly Story at Artscape Theatre, showcasing his versatility as a performing saxophonist. Exploring the importance of versatility in the modern saxophonist is his true passion.