Neapolitan Mandolin Magic

Alexandria, VA

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Travels up to 120 miles

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Overview

Neapolitan Mandolin Magic brings the sound and soul of Italy to any event! Connor performs on the traditional Neapolitan mandolin, offering a bright, distinct tone that instantly evokes Italy. His repertoire spans all regions—lively tarantellas, romantic serenades, and folk songs from Naples, Sicily, and beyond. Performing solo or with accompaniment, acoustic or amplified, Connor can stroll, entertain, or create an elegant backdrop. Perfect for weddings, festivals, wine tastings, restaurants, and Italian celebrations of every kind.


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Booking information

Price range: Contact for rates

Languages: English

Gig length: 15 - 400 minutes

What to expect

Audiences can expect an authentic and engaging performance rooted in the sounds of Italy. Connor performs on the traditional bowl-back mandolin, offering a warm, resonant tone suited for both background ambiance and featured sets. His repertoire moves easily from lively tarantellas and regional folk songs to romantic serenades and waltzes.

Performances can be tailored to the occasion—strolling acoustically through a restaurant, setting a relaxed atmosphere for a wine tasting, or providing a focused concert experience with historical context and storytelling. Professional, flexible, and easy to work with, Connor brings a thoughtful balance of artistry and approachability to every event.

About

Connor Marks is a mandolinist and multi-instrumentalist who specializes in the traditional music of southern Italy. Performing on an authentic Neapolitan bowl-back mandolin, he explores the regional sounds of Naples, Sicily, and beyond — from lively tarantellas to lyrical serenades and folk songs rarely heard today.

His work bridges performance and preservation, offering audiences both the beauty of the music and the story behind it. Whether performing solo or with accompaniment, in intimate venues or large public settings, Marks brings a distinct sound and atmosphere rooted in Italian tradition.

Additional booking notes

My setup is simple and adaptable. I can perform fully acoustic or bring a compact amplification system when needed. For most events, all I require is a small performance space and access to a standard power outlet if amplification is used.

If strolling or moving between tables, I typically perform unplugged for a more natural sound. For larger venues or outdoor events, I can provide my own PA and cables.

I arrive early for setup and sound check, and coordinate closely with event staff to ensure a smooth, professional experience.

Past booked events

June 2026

06

Saturday

Children’s Birthday Party

4:30pm - 5:30pm

Great Falls, VA

Set list

Tarantella Napoletana
Funiculì Funiculà
O Sole Mio
Santa Lucia
Torna a Surriento
Non ti Scordar di Me
Core ’ngrato
Calabrian Tarantella
Vitti ‘na Crozza
Pizzica
Bella Ciao
That’s Amore
Volare

And Many Many More!!!

Influences and inspiration

Raffaele Calace (1863–1934) – The virtuoso of the Neapolitan mandolin. Composer, builder, and performer who shaped the modern technique and romantic Italian mandolin sound.

Carlo Munier (1859–1911) – A key figure in mandolin pedagogy and classical repertoire; elegant, lyrical playing style.

Giovanni Gioviale (1885–1949) – Often considered one of Italy’s greatest mandolinists; fused folk and classical styles with expressive phrasing.

Setup requirements

DI Box

Instrument Mic

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