Conductor Testimonials
Boston Ballet
Mikko Nissinen. Artistic Director, Boston Ballet & Boston Ballet School
“In ballet everything starts with the music; as the backbone of dance, it dictates movement, pace, accents, choreographic forms and ideas, and the feeling of the art. Mark Churchill upholds this platform with utmost respect to the composition and the dance.
As Artistic Director of Boston Ballet and Boston Ballet School, I experienced Mark’s work with Boston Ballet Orchestra and his exceptional interpretations over many years. Mark was able to stay true to composer’s intentions, with sensitivity and good taste, while bringing colour and vibrancy to the forefront. He took care to incorporate the artistic vision into the work and performances. I was thoroughly impressed with Mark’s musical intelligence and his understanding of the role music plays in the performing arts.”
Bruce Marks. Artistic Director and CEO, Boston Ballet, 1985-1998
“Mark Churchill was Associate Conductor of the Boston Ballet for seven years during my tenure. Mr. Churchill is not only a fine musician, but a sensitive, caring conductor. He had a wonderful working relationship with the Boston Ballet and was well respected by both the musicians and dancers in the company. He was sensitive to their artistic needs, however, never compromised the quality or integrity of the music.”
Jonathan McPhee. Music Director, Boston Ballet, 1988-2017
“Mark Churchill held the position of Associate Conductor of the Boston Ballet from 1990 to 2011 during the time that I was Music Director of the company. His musical abilities and sensibilities towards the musicians with whom he worked were exceptional. In addition, he approached the work of conductor for the ballet with intelligence and grace. He always showed the greatest consideration and respect for the sister art of dance while bringing to it great musical authority. He was always a supportive colleague and very much a team player which we all greatly appreciated.”
Anna-Marie Holmes. Ballet Mistress and Artistic Director, Boston Ballet, 1985-2001
“I had the pleasure working with Mark Churchill for seven years at the Boston Ballet during my time as Associate Artistic Director. Mr. Churchill had conducted our full repertoire of ballets with great success. He has an understanding of how to facilitate the dancer but not distort the musical line. I found him wonderful to work with and always enjoyed the results of his work on the podium. He has the right kind of temperament to deal with ballet dancers, and due to his kindness and immense skill, he was well loved by all of us.”
Larissa Ponomorenko. Principal Dancer, Boston Ballet, 1993-2010
“I am grateful to have had many years of inspiring experiences working at Boston Ballet with one of the most kind and honest artists, conductor Mark Churchill. As a dancer, I am indebted to every single opportunity I had to collaborate with live music on stage. I will never forget the incredible jolt of energy I would receive every time I heard the sound of the orchestra in the theatre while getting ready to step on stage. The inspiration was surging from the orchestra pit, and the feeling was exhilarating and invigorating, especially when the orchestra was conducted by Mark. Each piece sounded with unwavering integrity. Mark’s deep knowledge of music and beautiful care for the art form, combined with his wise disposition and great patience with the dancers, always made collaborating with him unique and unforgettable!”
Erica Cornejo and Carlos Molina
Former soloists, American Ballet Theatre and Principal dancers, Boston Ballet.
“We had the privilege to work closely with Mark Churchill at Boston Ballet and International dance tours. Mark is a great conductor and an extraordinary person and artist. His work ethic is impeccable and is filled with so much love and passion. We have been very fortunate to have known Mark for many years and had the great pleasure of dancing under his baton. As a dance orchestra conductor Mark provides great support and comfort to the dancers.”
Anthony Randazzo. Rehearsal Director, Boston Ballet, 2002-present
"I had many enjoyable interactions with Mark Churchill during his time at Boston Ballet. His nuanced understanding of the relationship between music and dance made collaboration easy and natural. Mark is kind, curious, helpful and always a joy to work with.”
Ronald Lowry. Principal Cellist, Boston Ballet Orchestra, 1992- present
“I am, and was principal Cellist of the Boston Ballet Orchestra during Mark Churchill’s more than 20 years as assistant Conductor there. Mark was always a joy to see on the podium, completely prepared and professional, but also inspired musically and faithful to the score to the smallest detail. It was always with complete trust that I saw him on the podium. There were numerous occasions when he had to step in with no preparation, or rehearsal, and always led a beautiful and uplifting performance. It is with complete admiration that I can call him a colleague.”
Symphony Pro Musica
Benjamin Zander. Conductor, Boston Philharmonic Orchestra
“At the heart of it all, Mark Churchill is a great musician. Whatever he does, he always gets to the core of what the music is about and imparts to everyone he works with the highest values: love of music, absolute integrity, beauty and passion. Beyond that is his untiring desire and capacity to bring music to the world. Few people have founded or nurtured as many great educational institutions in America and around the world as Mark Churchill. In the 53 years that I’ve known and worked with Mark, first as his cello teacher, then as my boss at New England Conservatory, and finally as close friend and collaborator on myriad ventures - including the founding and development of the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra - I’ve remained in awe of his total engagement with the entire classical musical community, his unwavering belief in the transformative power of music and in his eloquent and passionate devotion to everything artistic.”
Jonathan Blumhofer. Composer; Music Critic, Worcester Telegram and Gazette, Boston Arts Review, and ArtsFuse
Not many community orchestras dare to program Nielsen’s Fifth Symphony. Or Shostakovich’s First. Or Mahler’s Third. Then again, most community orchestras aren’t Symphony Pro Musica. For more than four decades now, SPM has set the bar for non-professional ensembles across the country with programs that are not just consistently fresh and thought-provoking – ones, in fact, you wouldn’t mind seeing on the Boston Symphony’s season announcements – but with performances to match.
This sort of thing doesn’t happen by accident. Rather, it’s a reflection of the special relationship that’s been cultivated between the group and its conductor, Mark Churchill. A man whose formidable musical gifts, pedagogical skills, and artistic vision are belied by a calming presence and a humble disposition, Mark has crafted a truly remarkable ensemble in SPM. Whether playing music by Mozart, Brahms, William Levi Dawson, or Lili Boulanger, Mark’s performances aim for a mix of expressive clarity and revelation – sometimes of under-represented fare, always of the music at hand. Often enough, too, he involves world-class soloists in the process.
As a result, SPM’s concerts frequently call to mind Virgil Thomson’s observation of a community orchestra he heard in action in Northfield, MA back in 1941. “Rarely,” Thomson noted, “have I heard an amateur orchestral concert so glowing with musical life.” So it goes in these parts for forty years and counting: the passion, understanding, and insight that defines SPM’s playing is very much a reflection of Mark’s leadership, musicianship, and dedication to his craft and his players. That combination – not least the end result – is, indeed, rare, special, and worthy of celebration.
Richard Dyer. Chief Classical Music Critic, The Boston Globe, 1976-2006
“Symphony Pro Musica played on a level far beyond what anyone expects from a ‘community orchestra’ serving a local area - the solo playing was all excellent and so were the individual sections of the orchestra. …a real sense of common endeavor!”
Zlatomir Fung. Cellist, 5-time SPM soloist. Gold medalist, 2019 Tchaikovsky Competition
"Collaborating with SPM over the years has been such an important part of my musical journey and growth. I cherish the memories of playing my first performances of core repertoire works with the orchestra in the region where I grew up. It has been a delight to see how Maestro Churchill brings fantastically original programming to the community while maintaining a high standard of artistic excellence and fostering great enthusiasm among the musicians. I am very grateful for all the opportunities that SPM has given me, and I look forward to playing again in the future with this wonderful organization!"
Inmo Yang. Violinist, 3-time SPM soloist. First prize winner, Paganini and Sibelius Competitions
“I am privileged to have known SPM for many years. With SPM, I got to learn and perform works that have become essential in my concerto repertoire, but more importantly, I realized that a truly rewarding concert experience comes from the trust, passion, and support among pure-hearted musicians. It is this spirit of the orchestra, which is becoming more rare in our age, that I so deeply cherish.”
George Li. Pianist, 6-time SPM soloist. Silver medalist, 2015 Tchaikovsky Competition
“SPM and Mark Churchill will always hold a special place in my heart. Mr. Churchill and the orchestra were so crucial and formative in my development as a pianist and musician - I am forever grateful for their trust in me, allowing me to perform numerous concertos that was I was learning for the first time. I learned so much from each of these unforgettable experiences, and it brings me great joy and warmth to see SPM in full blossom and continuing to support and help young artists and musicians around the world.”
Maria Ioudenitch. Violinist, SPM soloist. First prize winner, Ysaÿe, Varga, and Joachim Competitions
“I was fortunate enough last season to have the opportunity to do my very first performance of the Beethoven Violin Concerto with the wonderful SPM and the ever-supportive Mark Churchill. For a young soloist, this is a breathtaking opportunity! I will never forget those two concerts, because the Beethoven concerto is a forever project, and I learned so much just by working on it together with SPM and Mark. Thank you for the invaluable experience and for all you do to support young artists!”
Benjamin Hochman. Pianist and Conductor, SPM soloist. Lincoln Center Avery Fisher Career Grant
“Mark Churchill and Symphony Pro Musica truly play for the love of music. Mark’s deep experience, musicality, and endless dedication to the cause are inspiring. The orchestra plays music for all the right reasons: with curiosity, seriousness of purpose, and enthusiasm”
Tommy Mesa. Cellist, SPM soloist. First Prize Winner, 2016 Sphinx Competition
“I had the pleasure of working with Maestro Churchill with Symphony Pro Musica where we performed Jessie Montgomery’s Divided for cello and strings and Tchaikovsky’s Pezzo Capriccioso. As a soloist, the stress and intensity of the role becomes downright enjoyable when the conductor is connected to your every whim—it felt as though Mark Churchill exemplified this connection while we worked together. His thorough knowledge of the score, in both the new and old repertoire we performed, was incredibly impressive. Symphony Pro Musica was veryresponsive to all of the conductors suggestions and welcomed changes even on the concert day. SPM felt like a true family and, as soloist, I felt like a welcome guest at their dinner table. Everyone was so easy to talk to during rehearsal breaks, and I met so many fascinating people. I am really looking forward to working together again with Mark Churchill and SPM in the near future!”
Valerie Clemans. SPM Concertmaster
“At the heart of Symphony Pro Musica is Mark Churchill's artistry as a conductor and director. One of Maestro Churchill’s gifts as a director is his ability to guide us in finding the essence of the music, helping us become enchanted with the sound world we are creating and inhabiting. His dedication to honing phrasing and articulation is unwavering, resulting in a level of musical expressiveness that consistently surpasses the expectations of a community orchestra. Through his leadership and deep understanding of the musical landscape, he inspires each player to contribute to their fullest, leaning into the musical moment we are striving to create. SPM stands out for our remarkable tradition of collaborating with incredibly gifted, musically mature young artists as part of their formative experiences soloing with orchestra. SPM players and audiences revel in a balance of stimulating contemporary compositions and an ever-deepening appreciation for cherished favorites. It's been an honor to serve as concertmaster in an orchestra so full of heart and spirit for over a decade.”
Pamela Mok. SPM Violinist
"In the medical profession, it is sometimes debated, “What’s more important, the heart or the brain?” Without the heart, no life exists, however life with only a pulsating heartbeat but no brain activity is dull and meaningless. Under the masterful direction of Maestro Mark Churchill, Symphony Pro Musica has both a strong rhythm and the lively multifaceted brains of 70+ musicians conjoined together to present evocative performances to enrich the lives of the community. For 40 years, Maestro Churchill has created compelling concerts designed to stimulate both musicians and audiences with adventurous programming and dazzling soloists. To work with Mark Churchill is to watch a true master of his craft. His attention to every musical detail and nuance is unparalleled and his rapport with soloists attracts world class musicians."
Robin Hillyard. SPM Principal Bassoonist since 1989
“I’ve been playing the bassoon for more than 60 years and have played for at least as many different conductors. Mark Churchill is simply the best. I first joined SPM in 1989 and have been with the orchestra ever since. Mark’s manner of working with his musicians is very special. I’ve never known him to demean a player for playing something badly or making a mistake. He has infinite patience to try to get the very best out of each player. On the other hand, he wants the best players he can get and is very good at choosing players who not only play well but who have the appropriate attitude so that they will enjoy playing in the orchestra for a long time. Attracting talented players is a huge part of Mark’s responsibilities for the orchestra, and he takes it very seriously and does it well. His programming, too, is outstanding. He’s sensitive to the fine line between pleasing the audience and the orchestra all while staying within the practical parameters of instrumentation and playability. Mark has introduced me to many wonderful pieces that otherwise I might never have known. Above all, Mark is friendly and welcoming to new players. That makes a big difference to someone just joining us and has made SPM a wonderful community as well as a respected and loved orchestra.”
Christine Friedrich. SPM clarinetist, 2021-2023
“Playing under the baton of Mark Churchill with Symphony Pro Musica for two seasons was a uniquely wonderful experience. No wonder, Mark’s musical imagination combined with his ability to relay his ideas to the orchestra resulted in memorable performances. Mark’s earnest, music-loving approach, as well as his ability to shape the rehearsal sequence so that everyone could play with confidence at concert night, created a congenial atmosphere that made all of us give our best. I cherish my memories of both the rehearsals and the concerts and remain grateful to Mark for making it possible for me to play the clarinet parts in Symphony Pro Musica’s 2021-2023 seasons.”
Ainur Tulendiyeva. Violinist, SPM member
“Four years ago I embarked on a life-changing journey as I became a part of Symphony Pro Musica, led by maestro Mark Churchill. Joining this orchestra was like finding a home for my soul - a place where music flourishes with its own unique resonance and radiates boundless positive energy. Every time I play alongside my fellow musicians, I feel their hearts intertwining with mine, all pouring their love into every note we play. Maestro Mark's guidance and the carefully chosen repertoire allow us to reveal our true selves through the music, making each performance a deeply personal and transformative experience. The rehearsals are not just practice sessions; they are infused with love, passion, and a shared desire to bring out the very essence of each musician's artistry. Being a part of this orchestra has awakened a profound connection to the music and my fellow musicians. SPM will forever hold a special place in my heart, as it is where I've discovered the true power of music and the beauty of souls uniting through music.”
Elizabeth Bronstein. Cellist, SPM member
“Playing in Symphony Pro Musica has been a wonderful experience. Mark Churchill’s skills as a conductor are truly impressive. His musicality, technique and passion are on the highest level. I learn something in every rehearsal and leave inspired! His musical interpretations are superb. As a professional musician, I can say with confidence that I have rarely played under the baton of someone as gifted as Maestro Churchill. The orchestra continues to improve under Mark’s baton, as he lifts the group to ever higher levels.”
Richard DiBuono. SPM board member
“Upon returning to this area after an absence of several decades, I happily discovered the existence of a wonderfully accomplished regional symphony orchestra. My first attendance at a concert by Symphony Pro Musica under the direction of its founding conductor, Maestro Mark Churchill, was so delightful that I immediately became a subscribing member. I’ve been a patron ever since and encourage live-music lovers to attend and enjoy SPM concerts and become patrons, too.”
Asian Youth Orchestra
Truong Nguyen. Violinist, Asian Youth Orchestra
"What I have never told Mark, my American father, is how special it was for me, a Vietnamese kid who was on his first ever trip out of Vietnam, his first ever interaction with the “outside world”, to hear how magnificently a symphony orchestra could sound. Mark gave me that experience when he started Mussorgsky ‘s “Pictures at an Exhibition” at the first 1995 Asian Youth Orchestra rehearsal in Hong Kong. It was nothing short of a wonder that made me feel so fortunate that I played the violin, and therefore had the opportunity to experience it. Mark, together with his late wife Marylou, have changed my life as they have done for so many other music students. While studying at NEC and living with them, I performed with the Symphony Pro Musica orchestra under Mark’s direction for many years. This was where I witnessed firsthand how a great conductor can truly transform and elevate an orchestra of music lovers who are mostly non-professionals to a level they might never expect themselves would be capable of, and I really learned the true meaning of music and how much it affects people’s lives. The music world is made better because of people like Mark Churchill."
Chi-Yuan Chen. Principal Viola, San Diego Symphony
“Mr. Churchill is one of the most influential mentor of my musical career. His kindness and wisdom have really made a huge impact on how I guide the next generation of musicians. For me as a young violist of Asian Youth Orchestra, Mr. Churchill created an absolutely ideal learning environment so all of us young musicians were able to learn to enjoy each other’s company while making music—a true piece of musical heaven on earth.”
Joseph Frederick Regalario. Violinist, Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra
“I had the wonderful opportunity to join the amazing Asian Youth Orchestra for four summers in the 1990s, which was an essential part of my education that led to a professional career as a violinist in the Philippines. During all those years, Mark Churchill served as the resident conductor, carefully spending the first two weeks of the rehearsal period teaching two full programs to our group of over 100 young musicians from more than 14 Asian countries. I learned so much from Maestro Mark! I vividly remember his smile during rehearsals and how he polished the pieces both musically and technically. By the end of the two weeks that he worked with us, AYO became a real musical ensemble and a beautiful family. I will be forever grateful to Maestro Mark and the AYO!”