Dr. Mark Foster is the band director at John Carroll Catholic High School in Birmingham, Alabama, and he is currently in his 32nd year of teaching band. He previously taught band at Mountain Brook Junior High School, Gardendale High School, and Hueytown High School. Bands under his leadership have consistently earned superior ratings and best in class awards at the district, state, and regional level.

Dr. Foster holds the bachelor of science, master of arts, and doctor of education degrees from the University of Alabama. He also holds National Board Certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. His research interests include band history and early Birmingham history including cultural development at the time of the founding of the city. His doctoral dissertation is entitled, “Fred L. Grambs and his influence on instrumental music in late 19th century Birmingham, Alabama.”

He was guest conductor for the 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001 UAB High School and Junior High School Honor Bands; the 2003, 2010, and 2013 University of Montevallo Honor Band; the 2010 University of Georgia Midfest honor bands; the Mobile County Schools All-County Band; and the 2018 Alabama All-State Middle School Jazz Band. As a trombone player, he has performed with the Temptations, The O’Jays, The Alabama Ballet Orchestra, The Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra, and The Alabama Symphony Orchestra. He is a member of Birmingham’s Superjazz Big Band and is also a founding member of the Renaissance Trombone Ensemble in Birmingham, Alabama.

Degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Music Education, The University of Alabama, 1990
• Master of Arts in Music Education, The University of Alabama, 1996
• Doctor of Education, The University of Alabama, 2005