Mark Sawasky is a world percussionist, teacher, and recording artist who has been a leader in the NOVA drum circle community for 15 years. By day, Mark is an elementary school music teacher in Fairfax County, and on the second Friday of every month, he facilitates “Drum Jam Free” in Alexandria’s Ben Brenman Park. Mark’s drum circles incorporate rhythms from Africa, Spain, South America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, and have a signature blend of unison grooves and individual self-expression.

As a founding member of the award-winning Immigrant Suns, Mark published six full-length albums and toured nationally. He has recorded with artists such as Eastern Winds (Middle Eastern), Odu Afro-Beat Orchestra, and Musique Noir (world jazz), and has toured internationally with the flamenco group, La Chispa.

Mark has been a guest performer with the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic Orchestra and the 257th Army Band. He has also taught ensemble percussion courses at George Mason University and Fairfax County Parks, and has been an instructor at Northern Virginia Community College Summer Music Camp and Harmonia School of Music.