Full Name: Mark Thomas Payne

Birth date: September 4

Did you go to College? If so, what was your major:

Elon College, B.S. Music Education and Clarinet Performance; UNC Greensboro, Master’s Degree in Music Education with emphasis on clarinet performance

Height: 6’2”

Eye Color:blue

Hair Color: blond and gray

Instruments Played: saxophone, clarinet, flute, keyboard

What bands did you perform with prior to the Holiday Band? “Suger Grove” (with Mike and Mike way back in the ‘70’s), and “All That Jazz” in the late ‘70’s and early ‘80’s.

What do you find yourself doing when not performing with the Holiday Band? Taking care of my family! I have been married to my wife Fredda for 28 years and have three beautiful children (Alan 24, Molly 17, and Mary Kate 11). My wife and I are currently restoring a historic home in Glencoe Mill, NC…….should be moved in by this time next year!

What Cd’s are in your CD player/Changer right now? “Summon the Heroes” by John Williams…..very cool music!

Favorites

Song: no way to pick one . . . I have at least ten in every category from classical to jazz to rock to beach to country!

Book: History and Historical Fiction

Super Hero: my dad and my wife

TV Show: Duke basketball!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hobbies: I fly Radio Control planes and paint in oils and acrylics

Sports:
Favorite Holiday Band Song: Stubborn Kinda Fellow
Favorite Holiday Band Song to perform: La Di Da!

Least Favorites:
Vegetable: cucumbers
Car: azteca
Place to Visit: anywhere that’s above 100 degrees
Song: anything rap
Holiday: I love ‘em all!!!!!!!

Where do you want to find yourself in 5 years? Retired from teaching, taking care of my family, and still playing in the Holiday Band!

What artists/musicians have inspired you greatly?

Every one I have ever heard or come into contact with…..in music you never stop learning or being inspired by the great ones around you and in the industry

Favorite Holiday Band show: Lincoln Center, NYNY

In One Word, Describe the other Members of Holiday Band individually:
Mike Taylor-leader!!!
Mike Neese-smooth!!!
Doug Neese-calm!!!
Bill Ward-cool!!!