Musical Director

Conductor

Educator

Trumpet Performance

AMEB (NSW) Examiner

Mark began his musical career playing trumpet in his local primary school band. He soon joined Willoughby Brass Band on cornet and started tuition under Bob Murray. At age 12 he was awarded a scholarship to commence trumpet studies with Ken Smith at the Conservatorium High School. Mark was awarded a scholarship every year thereafter. Mark also studied Piano with Adene McInnes at the Conservatorium.

Throughout his undergraduate degree at the Conservatorium, Mark furthered his performance studies with James Blunt. In 1988, he was selected as a member of the Expo City Marching Band for World Expo’ held in Brisbane. He became a member of the Gardens Point Brass Band as well as many professional ensembles in Brisbane.

Mark returned to Sydney and completed his degree in Music Education. During his student years, he played with many different ensembles including Symphony Orchestras (foundation member of Balmain Sinfonia), Wind/Concert Bands (touring to NZ, Europe and outback Australia), Jazz Bands, Rock Bands, and various chamber ensembles around Sydney. Mark also worked as a casual trumpeter for the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra.

Marks diverse musical interests saw him complete Postgraduate music studies at Sydney University majoring in Music Technology and Music Education. Upon graduation and after a short period of University tutoring, Mark focussed on the development of his studio teaching and developing School Band programs.

Mark now resides in Kellyville, where he is actively involved in school and community music in Sydney’s northwest. In addition to operating a busy teaching studio, Mark is the Director of Bands at William Clarke College, Samuel Gilbert Public School and Jasper Road Public School. He is the current and founding Musical Director of the Clefhangers Concert Bands (for Adult Beginners). In 1995, Mark was appointed the Musical Director of City of Holroyd Brass Junior and Senior Bands where he continues to achieve strong results in the contest arena.

In 2004 Mark was appointed Brass Examiner for the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) (NSW).

Contact: strykow@zip.com.au

Phone: 0412 918 515

Phone: +61 (0)2 9836 1868

Fax: +61 (0)2 9836 1868