Musician Spotlight

This week we feature trumpeter and band leader Mark Rouse! Mark can be heard all around Columbia in a variety of settings. From playing with the Capital City Big Band to leading his own group, Weatherproof, Mark is dedicated to jazz and empowering others. In addition to playing, Mark is also a State Farm insurance agent in Lexington.

We asked Mark some questions...

-When did you first start playing?

-Late, in 9th grade.

-What was some of the first music that you loved?

-R&B and Rock music that had horns and wind ensemble music.

-If you could pick a different instrument what would you pick and why?

-The piano. It is a complete orchestra at your fingertips.

-What are you listening to these days?

-Ella Fitzgerald. She has the most melodic improvisational stye.

-Where is one of the coolest places you've played?

-At a local airport in Georgia for my nieces wedding.

-Who is a musician you think others should know about?

-Harry "Sweets" Edison

-What's keeping you busy these days (musically and non)?

-Running my insurance agency, traveling, playing as much as I can at church ,with my group, Weatherproof and with Capital City Big Band.