Jazz… Good for the Soul

by Stephanie Struyck Elgin

He began playing piano at a very young age, but without a doubt was destined to be in the music world since birth.  He’s charming, driven and talented, and it’s no wonder why he has found success at such a young age. With a jazz CD just released and a recurring role as the on-screen keyboard player for Fox’s popular television series, Glee, jazz musician Mark Nilan Jr. takes a moment to talk with us.
Born and raised in Detroit and coming from a family of musicians, Mark followed in the musical footsteps of his father and began piano lessons at the age of 5. “My dad is a jazz pianist,” states Mark.  “He’s my foundation and my mentor, and has taught me a lot.  I grew up listening to music greats such as Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles.  I was always surrounded by great music and it played a very influential role in my musical career.”    
Mark went on to study classical music for the next 10 years and at age 15 developed his love for jazz after attending a summer jazz camp at Interlochen Center for the Arts in Detroit.  “This is when I got fully hooked on jazz piano.” Mark didn’t waste any time and at age 16, began playing professionally for live jazz bands.  “My dad would get calls for gigs and pass them over to me when he was unable to do the job.  I was ‘thrown in the fire’ so to speak, but that’s what made me good.  I was able to play with the most talented guys in Detroit.” 
It wasn’t until a year later when Mark began working at Restoration of Life ministries in the heart of Detroit, where he “came out of his shell,” as the musician states.  “I was very impressionable and it was here where I learned how to play with true soul,” states Mark.  “I took this gospel gig and boy did I grow up quick.  I was young and not very comfortable with my skills just yet.  But this job taught me confidence and not to be shy.” 
Following high school, Mark went on to Wayne State University in Michigan where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Piano, and in 2006 packed his bags and headed west to the Santa Clarita Valley where he currently resides.  He attended California Institute of the Arts where he hit the books for two years straight, graduating with his Master’s degree in 2008. In the summer of 2009, Mark began writing and recording music for his debut album and collaborated with music greats such as bassist Abraham Laboriel, drummer Gregg Bissonnette, guitarist Ricky ‘Z’ Zahariades and percussionists Brad Dutz.  “These are all musicians who played with other legendary greats and now they are playing for me,” states Mark, “it’s a complete dream come true!”  Mark’s album, Hands On, released last month and brings a youthful energy and spirit to smooth contemporary jazz.
But Mark’s success didn’t stop there.  Opportunities continued to come his way.  Mark was cast as the keyboard player in the hit television series, Glee.  “I was at the right place at the right time,” explains Mark.  Last year Mark attended the SCV’s Most Talented contest and caught the attention of Christine Day, the musician casting director for Glee and one of the judges for the competition.  “I was playing for singer Lydia Saxton.  I went through the steps of the competition with her and that’s when Christine noticed me.  She told me I looked perfect for Glee. Two weeks later I received an email asking if I’d like to work on the show.  Without hesitation, I said ‘Yes!’”  And what was originally thought of to be a one-time gig, turned out to be a recurring role on the popular series.  “I’m a musician, not an actor, “ states Mark, “so it’s a whole other world for me, but the cast of Glee is incredibly talented and it’s nice to be part of that family. Success comes from staying humble, being thoroughly adept at your craft and being in the right place at the right time.”
For more information or to purchase a CD visit www.marknilanjr.com