MARK MCKOWEN

(The Alchemist)

DRUMS, ORCHESTRATION

Mark is a graduate from BSU with degrees in Music Engineering as well as Physics. In his studies as part of Music Engineering, Mark was introduced to Orchestral composition, which he then independently self-studied after graduation, writing compositions in filmscore, as well as pop, and solo instrumental.

Wishing to expand on the dynamic range of writing, Mark began taking interest in merging full orchestra with hard rock and heavy metal genres, which was initially inspired by Yes, ELP, Genesis, and Frank Zappa, but later Blind Guardian and Nightwish.

In addition to Symphonic Rock influence, Mark also is a huge prog fan, with inspiration from Rush, Dream Theater, Symphony X, and similar.

In terms of drumming inspiration, Mark's Top 5 inspirational drummers (2023) include:

Thomas Lang

Mike Mangini

Casey Grillo

Dave Weckl

Dennis Chambers

Special thanks to:

Saluda Cymbals

Scorpion Percussion

Mapex Drums

Mark is endorsed by Saluda Cymbals and currently uses these fine products: Mapex and Pork Pie drums, Gibraltar hardware, DW pedals, Yamaha keyboards, and Scorpion sticks.

In addition, Mark would like to thank these companies for their high quality: sE Electronics, Rode Microphones, Sennheiser Microphones, Allen & Heath mixers.

Mark’s influences (bands): Dream Theater, Symphony X, Kamelot, Nightwish

Mark’s influences (musicians): Drums: Thomas Lang, Mike Mangini, Dennis Chambers, Neil Peart (RIP). Keyboards: Jordan Rudess, Oliver Palotai, Tuomas Halopainen, Michael Pinnella.

Special thanks: my wife Lesley, my family, my bandmates, and the Almighty God.