Mark Beesley

Mark was born in Harrogate, Yorkshire, UK, in 1961. He holds a B.A in Political Sociology and an MSc in Science and Technology Policy Studies. He was also a research fellow at Sussex University for 3 years. He studied singing with the late Elisabeth Abercrombie, and Dennis Wicks (both pupils of Yani Strasser), and with Laura Sarti and Robert Alderson. He has worked with many leading coaches at the Royal Opera House, Glydebourne and English National Opera. Mark has always had a passion for music and theatre. At University he actively participated in the Theatre, lighting many shows, and organising and running a company performing at the Edinburgh Festival. Whilst at Sussex University, he worked as an actor during the season at Glyndebourne, gaining valuable stage experience. His professional singing career started in 1987 after auditioning for the international Opera Director, Graham Vick. Mark's debut was as Pistola in the CBTO's acclaimed production of Falstaff. After appearing as Sarastro in CBTO's production of The Magic Flute, he was invited to audition for the Royal Opera House as principal bass, joining the company in August 1999. He remained at the Royal Opera House for 6 years, performing many roles with the worlds leading singers and conductors. In 1996, Mark went Freelance, and took engagements a variety of Leading Opera Houses, including Welsh National Opera, The Chatalet, Nantes and English National Opera. In 1998 he joined ENO as principal Bass, whilst continuing his freelance work. Mark is now fully freelance again, and has worked at Nantes, Tours, all over Holland, Barcelona, Glyndebourne, Monte Carlo and of course Covent Garden. He lives in Sussex with his wife Jan and his two children Natasha and Gregory.