Mark San Filippo
Bandleader • Jazz & Groove Artist
• Bandleader • Jazz & Groove Artist
Mark San Filippo is a Los Angeles–based drummer, bandleader, and recording artist whose vision bridges jazz, groove, swing, and contemporary sounds.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Mark began playing drums at age twelve. During his high school years he performed with the Los Angeles Junior Philharmonic, honing his classical and ensemble skills.
He went on to attend Pasadena City College, where he received an Associate of Arts in Music and earned a Jazz Ensemble Award for “outstanding contribution.” Later, Mark studied at the Colburn School of Performing Arts before transferring to UCLA, from which he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Ethnomusicology, concentrating in Jazz Studies.
His mentors and teachers include jazz luminaries and masters such as drummers Billy Higgins and Sherman Ferguson, cornetist Bobby Bradford, bandleader Gerald Wilson, and guitarists Kenny Burrell and Anthony Wilson.
Career & Musical Work
Mark has established a versatile career as both a bandleader and sideman, performing across genres including jazz, groove, swing, Latin, and soul.
He is the drummer and one of the driving forces behind Angel Town Combo, formed in 2013. As band leader, he helps shape the ensemble’s repertoire, which ranges from vintage jazz and swing to modern groove, ska, and improvisational music. With Angel Town Combo, Mark has played at high-profile venues and events including KJAZZ’s Wine & Jazz Summer Concert Series (Hollywood & Highland), Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grille & Jazz Club, The Geffen Playhouse, and many other prominent settings across Los Angeles.
Mark’s highlights also include being part of the Duke Ellington Centennial Celebration at UCLA’s Royce Hall, where he performed alongside jazz greats and under guest conductor Lalo Schifrin and pianist Herbie Hancock.
He has freelanced widely—touring and recording with various jazz, swing, Latin, and groove ensembles internationally.
Style & Approach
Mark’s drumming is characterized by a deep respect for tradition, combined with fresh rhythmic sensibilities. He draws on classic jazz vocabulary, swing, Latin grooves, and modern rhythmic textures to support both acoustic and more contemporary instrumentation.
As a bandleader, he emphasizes musical communication, dynamic interplay, and versatility: Angel Town Combo can shift from a tight swing quartet to a larger groove band with ease. His leadership style is collaborative and adaptive, matching his band’s sound to the mood of the event or venue.
Selected Highlights & Affiliations
Founding member / bandleader of Angel Town Combo
Performer at prominent jazz venues in Los Angeles and Southern California (Vibrato, The Geffen Playhouse, etc.)
Participation in the Duke Ellington Centennial concert at UCLA with Herbie Hancock and Lalo Schiffrin
Studied with jazz masters (Billy Higgins, Bobby Bradford, Gerald Wilson, Kenny Burrell)
Educated in Los Angeles area institutions: Pasadena City College, Colburn School, UCLA
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