"Verve and flexibility!" - The Hamilton Spectator
"acheived the pace ,finished with gusto and earned his applause!" - Sioux City Journal
(Rossini - Theme and Variations with maestro Ryan Haskins and the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra)
" Mark is a virtuoso clarinetist!" - Eric James Artistic Director, Beaver Valley Concert Society
Clarinetist Mark Thompson studied at The University of Toronto, Indiana University, and The Mannes College of Music in New York. In 1994, he became the first Canadian clarinetist to win first prize in the Artists' International Competition, subsequently giving his New York debut at Weil recital hall. Since then, he has enjoyed a diverse musical career spanning from recording for the CBC and BBC to being heard on various jingles and the Disney Channel. Since 1996, he has been Artistic Director of Clearly Classic Concerts in Dundas, Ontario in the capacity as performer and developer of numerous projects, including the ensemble 'Twist!'. He has performed with many of Canada's orchestras, including the Toronto Symphony and has performed and toured with internationally known ensembles Quartetto Gelato , and The Penderecki String Quartet. His CD release 'Blue Skies' with pianist Susan Lee has been heard extensively on CBC and National Public Radio. He is in demand throughout North America as a clinician and adjudicator, including the Glenn Gould Professional School. He is also a member of the College of Examiners for the Royal Conservatory in Toronto. When not performing, Mark's favorite hobby is running and has participated in several marathons.
