Dr. Mark P. Thomas is a Grammy nominated musician/educator and one of the founders of the Anthracite Philharmonic. He has been recognized in both the United States and Europe for his passion, creativity, dedication, and leadership in the performing arts. The Pottsville Republican has recognized Thomas as "…a person who has made a difference to our county" According to the Prague Post … Thomas is a passionate conductor who understands the intricacies and importance of both orchestral and choral music.
Thomas has been a guest artist and conductor for many organizations including the Prague Radio Symphony, the New York Pops, and the State Orchestra of St. Petersburg. He has made multiple tours throughout Europe and North America including performances at Notre Dame in Paris, St. Stephen's in Vienna, the State Opera House, the Cathedral of Saints Simon and Jude in Prague, St. Peter's in Vatican City, Rome, Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall, the Riverside Cathedral in New York City, and Orchestra Hall in Chicago.
Dr. Thomas is listed in Who's Who in the World, Who's Who in America, and Who's Who in Education. He has received recognition from former President William Clinton on behalf of a music program he designed honoring our World War II veterans. He has been recognized twice on the floor of the United States House of Representatives for serving as an ambassador of music for the United States. Thomas has also been awarded multiple citations of excellence and service to his community by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, the Pennsylvania Senate, and the Schuylkill County Board of Commissioners. Both the Austrian and German governments have also recognized Thomas for his contributions in music. Thomas was named by Philadelphia Magazine as the "Best Music Director" in the Philadelphia region and was a Pennsylvania finalist for "Teacher of the Year". Thomas has studied and received degrees in music and music education from the universities of West Chester, Kutztown, Villanova, Walden, University of the Arts (Philadelphia), and the Eastman School of Music where he studied both orchestral and choral conducting. Thomas also serves as the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Schuylkill Choral Society and as an adjunct professor of humanities and education for Alvernia University.