Mark Thurston
Mark Thurston was a tremendous teacher and inspirational figure who characterized the passion that defined the Crossmen for many years. Mark provided the corps with his leadership, teaching, and arranging expertise for nearly two decades. He was an exceptional member of the corps from 1979-1982 as part of some of the greatest Crossmen snare lines. Then, as a staff member and percussion arranger from 1983-1996, he redefined the Crossmen sound and created one of the most musically original and dynamic percussion sections in drum corps history.
He has touched the lives of many a Crossmen member who have gone on to become teachers and arrangers in the activity themselves. His drum lines were superior and are highly respected throughout drum corps to this day, bringing a style of writing to the field that was fresh and powerful and unique.
Mark was known for his vigilant pursuit of excellence, even in the face of extreme adversity. He saw the best and the worst of the Crossmen in his years of service to the corps, and was a central figure in holding the Crossmen spirit together during some of its toughest times.
Mark never put winning ahead of making sure he treated people well. He had a way of building confidence in people and creating a tremendous sense of pride and loyalty in being a member of the Crossmen. Indeed, many members went on to march several years with the corps because of the values Mark instilled in them. He has positively influenced more Crossmen members than just about any other instructor in corps history, and is a well-deserved and standout addition to the Crossmen Hall of Fame.
He has touched the lives of many a Crossmen member who have gone on to become teachers and arrangers in the activity themselves. His drum lines were superior and are highly respected throughout drum corps to this day, bringing a style of writing to the field that was fresh and powerful and unique.
Mark was known for his vigilant pursuit of excellence, even in the face of extreme adversity. He saw the best and the worst of the Crossmen in his years of service to the corps, and was a central figure in holding the Crossmen spirit together during some of its toughest times.
Mark never put winning ahead of making sure he treated people well. He had a way of building confidence in people and creating a tremendous sense of pride and loyalty in being a member of the Crossmen. Indeed, many members went on to march several years with the corps because of the values Mark instilled in them. He has positively influenced more Crossmen members than just about any other instructor in corps history, and is a well-deserved and standout addition to the Crossmen Hall of Fame.
