#144 - Mark Morris Professional Skier & Musician
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Growing up in the mountains of Clear Creek County, Colorado, professional skier and musician Mark Morris started skiing at age 2 and learned the fundamentals of ski racing at Loveland Ski Area. He quickly changed his focus from racing to backcountry skiing at age 13 after his first helicopter skiing trip to Valdez, Alaska. After high school, Mark moved to Crested Butte, Colorado, where he continued to learn the important balance of pushing personal limits while respecting backcountry safety. Today, Mark has the pleasure of traveling the world year-round, both as a skier and as a musician, in pursuit of promoting life, happiness, and good times. Mark's music with the band Rapidgrass embodies the notion that nature, and particularly mountains, can bring out the best in our art, and we have dedicated much of our creative energy into bringing that art back to the people of the mountains. Focusing on travel to mountain towns, Rapidgrass inspires mountain people and athletes around the globe. The full-time lineup includes Mark Morris (guitar, lead vocals), Charlie Parker Mertens (upright bass), Coleman Smith (violin), and Alex Johnstone (mandolin, vocals). This Colorado ensemble uses classical, gypsy, bluegrass, pop, swing, and other world rhythms to create what is, and can only be described of as, Rapidgrass. Tune in as Mark Morris joins Bobby Marshall to perform in-studio and discuss music, skiing, world travels, Colorado, outdoor therapy, mountain life, and so much more. Please subscribe or like us on social media platforms for updates on shows, events, and episode drops
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As an avid adventurer or a music enthusiast, you may wonder what the intersection of these two passions looks like. In this blog post, we dive into the captivating conversation with Mark Morris, who effortlessly combines his love for skiing and music, creating moments of deep connection with his surroundings and his audience.
The Art of Combining Skiing and Music
Morris, known for his association with the band Rapidgrass, has built his identity around two passions: skiing and music. He shares how his love for nature manifests in his professional skiing career and the music he creates as a frontman for Rapidgrass.
Morris opens the conversation delving into his experiences in Alaska, where the beauty of nature merges with his musical inspirations. He describes how he takes advantage of the landscape to enjoy not only skiing but also ice-skating, completing the experience with impromptu musical sessions in the mountains. This unique combination of nature and artistry provides a framework for the kind of immersive encounters that Morris seeks to create.
Musical Adventures
While discussing his musical journey, Morris highlights the importance of being authentic and creating art for the sake of art. His unwavering dedication is evident as he talks about the release of his new music video and single. His pursuit of perfecting his craft has led him to explore various forms of music and find ways to present it in different settings.
One such innovative approach is his idea of organizing immersive musical trips, where the environment becomes an integral part of the experience. These trips combine thrilling outdoor activities like rafting, heli-skiing, and kite-surfing with intimate musical performances curated by various artists & Morris himself. These experiences connect attendees with the musicians on a personal level while creating shared memories in stunning natural settings.
The Beauty of Heli Skiing
When looking at the skiing aspect of Morris’s life, heli skiing's allure emerges prominently in the conversation. Morris describes the thrill of flying to the top of a mountain in a helicopter and then using his skills to make his way down the snowy slopes. These experiences, although not devoid of challenges, have allowed him to explore some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, from Canada to Alaska.
However, the thrill does not outweigh the importance of safety and body maintenance. Morris gives insight into his routine of strength training and intentional dieting to keep his body agile and healthy. These practices help ensure his longevity in both his skiing and music ventures, which often require high levels of physical performance.
Concluding Thoughts
Mark Morris’s life and career serve as an inspiration. His dedication to his passions is a lesson in authenticity, showcasing how blending different interests can lead to a fulfilling professional and personal life. Whether you are a ski enthusiast, a music lover, or someone seeking an immersive life experience, Morris’s endeavors offer a unique perspective on pursuing your passions unabashedly.
Remember to keep an open mind as you navigate your own interests. You might just find your version of skiing and music, opening new horizons for your growth and happiness.