Mark Daman Thomas

Biography

Mark Daman Thomas is a practicing musician based in Powys, Wales. Active as a songwriter and performer since 2004, he has released music in his band’s Islet and Attack + Defend and his solo project ‘Farm Hand’. Islet signed to Fire Records in 2019 and the latest album ‘Eyelet’ was released in March 2020 to critical acclaim including being shortlisted for the Welsh Music Prize.

View full discography.

He has over 15 years of live and touring experience, including in the USA, South Korea, Japan and Europe. Mark has recorded live sessions for BBC Radio 1, BBC 6Music and BBC Radio 3. In 2006 Mark co-founded vinyl specialist independent label Shape Records.

In 2013 Mark was selected for PRS Foundation’s two-year Professional development programme “New Music Plus”. During this time Mark received bespoke training at arts venues around the UK to enhance creative programming, marketing and business skills. Partnered to work with Chapter in Cardiff, this relationship led to the development of From Now On Festival. Mark has programmed stages at Green Man, Swn & Focus Wales.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP), University of Gloucestershire (2020)
• Accredited Mentor Status – University of South Wales

Membership of professional bodies

• Fellow of The Higher Education Academy (2020)