Dr. Mark P. Thomas is a Grammy nominated musician/educator who has served as music director of the Schuylkill Choral Society since 1986. 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 choral and orchestral music. Dr. Thomas is also co-founder and conductor of the Anthracite Philharmonic and co-founder of the Schuylkill Choral Societies children's choir, the Minors Notes Chorale.

Thomas has performed in 23 countries across the world, including serving as a guest artist

and conductor for the New York Pops, the Prague Radio Symphony, 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 and 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 Choral Director" in the Philadelphia region and was a Pennsylvania finalist for "Teacher of the Year", was named “Citizen of the Year” by the St. David's Society and was the first musician inducted into the “Upper Perkiomen Hall of Fame” where he also served as Supervisor of Music. Thomas is also an adjunct professor of humanities and education for Alvernia and Penn State Universities.