Many educators agree that music education is often overlooked and underfunded throughout the American school system. Studying music helps build vital, undervalued traits like resilience, discipline, emotional management, and critical thinking—all of which contribute to broader academic success. Studies show that participation in music programs in grades 7–12 drops off significantly.

My musical success came from an early exposure to and early appreciation of music, thanks to my family. Now, I am able to experience the world in a musical manner every day. It offers me a peaceful, yet focused and productive activity that I can always count on and come back to for further study, giving me something to look forward to and grow through with effort and creativity.

You must have an innate interest in the language of music to study it. Like any language, the earlier you learn it, the more likely you are to become fluent. The final key is a humble mindset and a desire to grow and play for others. This alone has served me well.

Mark is a well-rounded musician who focuses on connecting difficult concepts to tangible techniques for learners at any stage of their journey. He has spent his life tinkering with keyboards, teaching his friends how to play, borrowing his father’s guitar, playing in bands, and eventually teaching himself music production while earning a degree in biology.

He has worked many exciting jobs and helped people all around the world, from leading groups of campers through the Adirondack Mountains to working the night shift in an emergency room. Although his life was full of adventure, he knew his true calling was music. He now teaches piano, guitar, and drums, as well as provides production services.

Mark moved to Iowa in late December 2021, where he taught hundreds of students alongside the lovely Miss Gabi of Passion Studios (also known as the best music school in Ankeny). During that time, he developed multiple music books and curricula and eventually inherited the studio, turning it into what you see today.

Fine arts and small-town vibes

Shared learning and serious growth

NOMAD MUSIC ACADEMY