THE UNKNOWN…
Mark’s debut ‘The Unknown’ was recorded at Peter Karl Studios in Brooklyn, New York. Featuring 6 original compositions by Mark, as well as two arrangements of the standard tunes "Smile" and "People Will Say We're In Love" this album is sure to score high marks among even the most discerning of jazz fans. Instrumentally, ‘The Unknown’ is comprised of Mark on tenor saxophone, along with the Outer Bridge Ensemble, which consists of Steve Hudson on piano/wurlitzer, Mike Noordzy on bass, Jerome Jennings on drums, and David Freeman on percussion. The Outer Bridge ensemble will be accompanying Mark as he showcases his new album in Calgary and Saskatoon, with an appearance opening up for guitar legend John Scofield at the upcoming Saskatoon Jazz Festival (www.saskjazz.com).MARK DEJONG...
Mark has been active as a performer and educator since graduating from the University of Calgary in 1991. He taught saxophone at the Mount Royal College Conservatory, organized music for the Beat Niq jazz club from its inception until 2000, and maintained a busy performing schedule with The Swinging Bovines saxophone quartet. After moving to Vancouver in 1998 to study with acclaimed sax teacher Stan Karp, Mark again relocated to New Jersey in 2001 to pursue graduate jazz studies with master saxophonist Ralph Bowen. After completing his graduate studies Mark returned to Canada to begin teaching jazz studies at the University of Saskatachewan.
THE OUTER BRDIGE ENSEMBLE...
During his three-year stint in New Jersey, Mark helped to form the Outer Bridge Ensemble, an all-original jazz quintet that has performed at the Ottawa Jazz Festival as well as many New York clubs including the 55bar, the Knitting Factory, Detour and others.
The Outer Bridge Ensemble has released two cd recordings, toured western Canada with the assistance of Canada Council, and has featured numerous guest musicians including trumpeter James Zoller, clarinetist Oscar Noriega, and saxophonist Claire Daly. Recently the group has their third studio cd in the works and have just completed a tour to Italy in March ‘08’. (www.stevehudsonmusic.net)
More information on Mark DeJong at www.myspace.com/jazzmarkdejong