Biography
As the grandson of Alabama Jazz Hall-of-Fame inductee Jerry “Grundy†Grundhoefer, it was no surprise that Mark developed an interest in music at an early age. At age 7 he began studying piano and continued his lessons until age 12 when he started studying guitar with Wilson Hart in Pensacola, FL.
Mark continued his study of the guitar throughout his high school years and began forming and playing with several rock, punk and surf bands. In 1999 he formed the progressive jam band “The Uneven†which sold over 500 copies of their first album entitled Bush Hog. The Uneven performed at major festivals in Pensacola, FL including Jubilee, with headlining act Bo Diddley, and the Blue Roots Festival which showcased many local bands. The group won the Best Local Band award at the Pensacola Springfest and were invited back to play the next year on the main stage with other performers including Blues Traveler, Foreigner, and Live. The Uneven relocated to Tallahassee, FL while Mark was attending Florida State University and continued to play together at local bars and clubs until 2004.
While in college, Mark was active with many other local bands, most notably his bluegrass group, Tom Sawyer River Trash, with which he played from 2002-2005. He led the group on banjo, acoustic guitar, backup vocals and harmonica. During his later years at FSU, Mark played electric guitar with several Top 40 groups including The River Bottom Nightmare Band. The group was asked to participate in the Down on the Farm Festival in Quincy, FL among other guests including Warren Haynes and Karl Denson. He also accompanied several local artists including Tyler Reeve and Kurt Lanham and played solo gigs on a consistent basis.
During his college career at Florida State University, Mark studied under the Associate Professor of Classical Guitar, Bruce Holzman, the Special Lifetime Achievement Award recipient at the Fifth New York Guitar Seminar at Mannes that was held in his honor. Mark graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Art in Music (Classical Guitar).
After completing his studies at FSU, Mark moved to Los Angeles, CA in 2007 to attend Musician’s Institute. There he studied under Alex Machacek, Daniel Gilbert, Ken Rosser, and Allen Hinds.
Mark’s sound is a reflection of his southern roots (rock and bluegrass) and of his studies (classical and jazz). His style is continuously developing and is reminiscent of his influences ranging from Yes, Rush, The Police, and Tears for Fears to Allan Holdsworth, The Yellowjackets, and Pat Metheny.
Live Entertainment
Mark's solo acoustic show is available for parties, corporate events, and special occasions. Set lists include Classic Rock, Southern Rock, Country, 80's and 90's hits, and everything in-between. The "Human Jukebox", Mark will entertain with a high energy, crowd pleasing night of live music. Mark travels with all his own equipment including a full P.A. system. For booking email [email protected]
Music Lessons
Mark Grundhoefer is available for private and group lessons Monday thru Saturday
throughout Southern California and over the internet. Lessons are being offered for Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Classical Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Banjo and Mandolin. Other services include theory, songwriting, effects, and maintenance classes.
With the interactive online lessons, you do not need to live in Los Angeles. All you need is an internet connection, a webcam, and a desire to learn. Compatible software will be provided if necessary.
Mark is a faculty member at the Dave Janssen School of Music in Simi Valley, CA. If you live in the valley and are looking for quality music instruction please click on the link above or call 805-520-7858 and sign up.
If interested in quality and affordable lessons, please email [email protected] and include what instrument you want to learn and your availability. You will then receive Mark's lesson policies, rates, availability and home phone number.
NEW ONLINE STORE COMING SOON
Detour West, a collection of original tunes performed by Mark Grundhoefer, will soon be available again through this myspace page. The SNOCAP store has been removed and a new Audiolife store is in the works. Check back soon. Album cover art can be found in the Pics section.
All songs written and performed by Mark Grundhoefer. Floaty written by Mark Grundhoefer and Nick Pappas.
Jeremy Hamilton - Vocals on ILL, Nick Pappas - Bass on Saved, Ben Nash - Drums on Saved