The State Historical Society of Iowa invites you to hear author Mark Cabaniss as he draws from his acclaimed and bestselling book to tell the inspiring story of Meredith Willson – Mason City’s own son who gave America its most iconic musical.
Through anecdotes, history, and rare insights, discover how Willson’s Iowa childhood and deep love of music fueled his journey from piccolo player to celebrated composer of The Music Man.
Mark Cabaniss is a music publisher, writer, producer, broadcaster, and speaker. He is President/CEO of Jubilate Music Group, a worldwide music publisher creating printed and digital music, recordings, and videos.
As an ASCAP composer and arranger, Mark’s published compositions have been performed nationally and abroad, and include choral anthems, musicals, cantatas, and instrumental pieces. His concert musical Triumph of Faith (co-written with Mark Blankenship) received its world premiere at Carnegie Hall. Other musicals include The Homework Machine, co-written with Tony-nominated composer Keith Herrmann and premiered by the Boston Children’s Theatre and The Stardust Supper Club (featuring the music of Hoagy Carmichael) co-written with Alan Bailey and given an Off-Broadway workshop production by The York Theatre Company.
Mark is the author of four books: Confessions of a Shameless Name-Dropper; Music Business Essentials: A Guide for Aspiring Professionals; Miracle of The Music Man: The Classic American Story of Meredith Willson, and 88 Keys to Music Business Success.
Mark holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education and Communications from Mars Hill University and The University of Tennessee – Knoxville. Mark resides in Nashville.