Biography

Mark Swartzentruber studied under John Ogdon in the United States before moving to London to work with Maria Curcio, the eminent protégé of Artur Schnabel.  

His début album, of late Schubert sonatas, was released by Sony to critical acclaim. He subsequently co-founded Solo Records, an independent label. His CDs, of Scarlatti, Haydn, Beethoven, Schumann and Debussy piano works, have all earned excellent reviews in the international music press.

He has performed throughout Europe, the USA and the Far East. London appearances include solo recitals at the Southbank’s Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room, Wigmore Hall and St John’s, Smith Square.

He has given live performances on BBC Radio 3, including twice last year as part of the “Genius of Mozart” and “Light Fantastic” series. He has also performed on BBC Radio 4 and Classic FM.

As a broadcaster, he appeared weekly on BBC Radio 3’s Sunday Morning as the “Raider of the Lost Archive”, presenting historic recordings as well as producing the show.  He has also produced music features, and has had programmes commissioned by Radio 3 and Radio 4.

A committed teacher and educator, he has given masterclasses and has adjudicated competitions in Britain, Ireland, the United States and the Far East. He is an external examiner for the Guildhall School of Music and maintains a vibrant private teaching practice.