Mark R DeJong

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Passion for the performing arts

I have managed a successful career as a performer in music for close to 30 years. During that time I have gained experience in virtually every aspect of music including performance, education, presentation, jazz improvisation, composition, arranging and doubling (flute/clarinet). The diversity of my experience has allowed for a creative and satisfying cross-fertilization of personal development that leaves me open to new challenges and career paths.

Recent feature performances

• 2019 - Various Redline Trio concerts with guests Brandi Disterheft, David Braid, Mike Rud, and poet/author Quincy Troupe • 2018 – Saskatoon Symphony presents “Both Sides Now’ – The music of Joni Mitchell with Sara Slean (vocals) – feature soprano saxophone soloist • 2018 – The Shuffle Demons – guest saxophonist on tour for feature performances at Panama Jazz Festival, and Havana Jazz Festival • 2017 – The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra – guest Canada 150 Suite premiere and live recording

Performing member of ensembles • 2017 – present – Redline Trio; feature performer/band leader of with weekly appearance at Betty Lou’s Cocktail Bar, Calgary • 2012 – present – Calgary Creative Arts Ensemble; founding member/performer - – Calgary’s newest contemporary big band has featured guests including NY saxophonist Ralph Bowen, Sean Jones, Brad Turner and James Zollar • 2001 – present – Outer Bridge Ensemble; founding member/performer - Featured guest artists included: James Zollar, David Braid, Oscar Noriega, Steven Bernstein, Brandi Disterheft Outer Bridge Ensemble highlights include:

• 2017 – New Jersey tour including New Brunswick Jazz Project and Hopewell Creative Arts • 2015 – Feature performance at the Blue Note (NYC) late night groove series • 2006 - 2016 – Opening performances at Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival for Christian McBride, Roy Hargrove, Medeski, Martin and Wood, Diane Reeves, Kenny Werner, John Scofield, Jesse Cook, and The Bad Plus. • 2010 – Canada Council supported tour western Canada (Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan) • 2008 – Extensive tour of Italy including Venice, Taranto, Bologna, Verona, Vicenza • 2006 – Alberta Foundation supported tour – western Canada (Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan)

Awards

2018 - Alberta Foundation for the Arts - Art production grant 2015 – Canada Council for the Arts – Art/concert production grant 2014 – Alberta Foundation for the Arts – Art/concert production grant 2012 – Invest YYC – Cultural Capital Crowd-funding initiative 2010 – World Expo, Shanghai China – Featured artist in Canada Pavilion 2009, 2006 - Canada Council for the Arts - Artist touring grant 2009 – University of Saskatchewan – Professional development grant 2008 - St. Peters College - Faculty Association Professional development grant 2007 - Saskatchewan Band Association - Guest presenter 2005 - University of Saskatchewan - Dwayne Nelson teaching award 2001 - Rutgers University - Pee Wee Russell scholarship 2001 – 2003 Rutgers University - Eugene H. Lockfeld Memorial scholarship 1998 - Alberta Foundation for the Arts - Professional development grant 1994 - French Consulate, Paris- International Music Study award 1990 - University of Calgary - Orchestra concerto competition winner 1989 - Alberta Foundation for the Arts - Music scholarship

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