PETER MARK..Class of...1957

Peter Mark a graduate of James Madison High class of 1957. A "Leader" indeed. A talent that almost everyone would love to have. I guess we all at one time or other as a child at bed time, laid on our backs in bed and conducted some sort of big band, or even perhaps a wonderful symphonic orchestra ...Waving our arms back and forth to the music only in our heads. Peter fulfilled his dreams, and went on to become "MAESTRO". world renown. He Has accomplished what many have not been able to in our young daydreams. For Peter's daydreaming became his wonderful reality. His bio is quite extensive. I would like to include a link for you to enjoy so you will see what he has accomplished in his career over the years. It will give you an idea of how strong his love and commitment to his music took him to where he is now. Here are some of his reviews for the new opening season
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The large orchestra, under the baton of Peter Mark and provided by the Virginia Symphony, was in fine form opening night, playing with passion and consummate sensitivity to the dialogue between pit and singers.
Maestro Peter Mark guides the over forty-piece orchestra with the lush, rich colors that define Tales of Hoffmann
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Musically, matters were at the same high level. Peter Mark conducted, and this too was one of his best performances in recent seasons. Tempos were sensible and dramatically apt. He maintained excellent balance between stage and pit, and coaxed some beautiful string and wind performances from the Virginia Symphony musicians.
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Virginia Opera started their season off with a bang. This production was absolutely amazing. I can’t imagine a better opener. This production had all the elements needed for a wonderful evening. I strongly urge everyone to see it. I promise you won’t be disappointed if you do.
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The Virginia Opera's orchestra, under the baton of longtime Artistic Director Peter Mark, produced a rich, romantic sound that underscored each singer's talents.
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Again, Peter Mark was outstanding as the conductor. He is the most giving of operatic conductors as he handles his singers with "kid gloves" throughout and yet he gently coaxes them into full intensity without overwhelming them with the music.
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Virginia should be very proud of this traveling opera company. The huge standing ovations for all of their operas at the George Mason U. Center for the Arts attest to the fact that they are loved for their professionalism and quality.
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This is a masterful production by the VOC, and kudos must go to maestro Mark for reviving it from the company's vault and putting it on display.
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Enjoy the following links, on the top of the first one click on each Opera.....Copy and paste them into your search engine...

http://www.vaopera.org/
http://www.vaopera.org/html/currentoperas/popup_castCrew.cfm?opera=1&castCrewMember=1094

I thank you Peter for sharing your accomplishments with me, and giving me the opportunity to share your amazing career with all our Madisonians as well.

You have mastered an amazing career "Maestro," and by doing so, have brought beautiful music to the ears of the world. Keep up your continued good work.

Another distinguished Madisonian to be proud of.