Mark Lessman: A Musical Journey
A California native, Mark Lessman's musical artistry spans the full spectrum of contemporary music - from straight-ahead jazz to blues and rock and roll. His distinctive saxophone style, characterized by a full, masterful tone, seamlessly blends these diverse influences into something uniquely his own.
Early Years
Mark's musical journey began at fifteen when he first picked up the saxophone and flute. Within a year, he was performing in the San Dieguito High School jazz band alongside future notables Tripp and Peter Sprague, John Leftwich, Kelly Jocoy, and Rob Schneiderman. At seventeen, he landed his first professional engagement - a five-night-a-week club residency with a variety band.
Musical Education & Early Career
His dedication to craft led him to the Bay Area, where he studied under the renowned Dave Liebman while performing with jazz and Latin groups in Santa Cruz. Returning to San Diego in 1981, Mark formed an acoustic Latin jazz quintet that became a fixture in local jazz clubs.
Notable Collaborations

Reunited with former bandmates to join Rob Schneiderman's jazz-fusion band Manzanita, recording "Pirate Lady" (1984)
Co-founded the Lessman-Almond band with saxophonist Johnny Almond (of Mark/Almond)
Backed legendary blues artists including Joe Turner, Jimmy Witherspoon, and Big Mama Thornton
Performed as a sideman with various artists, including Gina Eckstine (daughter of Billy Eckstine), playing showrooms across Las Vegas, Reno, and Tahoe
Toured with A&M recording artists Private Domain

The Mark Lessman Band
In 1986, Mark formed his own band, making an immediate impact on San Diego's thriving contemporary jazz scene. Their debut album "More Or Less" (1990) earned critical acclaim from the Los Angeles Times, L.A. Jazz Scene, and The Reader, while receiving extensive airplay on KIFM and Art Good's syndicated Jazz Trax show.
The band served as musical host for three Caribbean Jazz Trax cruises, collaborating with jazz luminaries Tom Scott, Dan Siegal, Richard Elliot, and Grant Geissman. They've shared concert stages with an impressive roster of artists including Patty Austin, Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, and Sergio Mendes.
Chicago Years & Return
After eight productive years in Chicago's vibrant music scene, where he worked as a sought-after freelance musician, Mark returned to his San Diego roots in September 2001, bringing with him a wealth of experience and musical perspectives.

 

Mark Lessman

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