Mark Pipes is a Portland-based musician and educator with a diverse and dynamic career. He is a founding member of the Portland Saxophone Ensemble and performs regularly with the Portland Wind Symphony, among other ensembles across a wide range of styles. Mark co-hosted PDX Saxophone Day in both 2019 and 2023, helping build community among saxophonists in the region.
He currently teaches at Portland State University and Reed College, maintains a thriving private studio, and frequently coaches saxophone sectionals and chamber ensembles at local middle and high schools.
Mark holds a Doctor of Arts in Music from the University of Northern Colorado, where he specialized in saxophone pedagogy with secondary emphases in jazz and music history. His doctoral research explored saxophone acoustics, focusing on how mouthpiece shape and material influence tone and timbre. He also earned a Master of Music and Certificate of Performance from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Delaware.
Beyond music, Mark works with arts and environmental organizations to build strategic partnerships and connect with supporters. He is also involved in producing projects that highlight Portland’s vibrant cultural scene.
When not teaching or performing, Mark enjoys riding anything with two wheels, sharing good food with friends, and spending time with his wife, Sherry Alves, and their son, David.