Marvin R. Sparks, Jr has worked throughout the United States as a percussionist, drummer, educator, consultant, writer, and producer. Professor Sparks serves on the faculties of Lone Star College-Kingwood/North Harris and Texas Southern University. Mr. Sparks holds a Bachelors of Music (Performance) from the University of Illinois-CU and a Masters of Art (Performance) from Eastern Illinois University. As a performer, Marvin has worked in various genres of the music industry including performances with The Color Purple, Ragtime, King and I, Max Roach, Roy Ayers, Lakewood Church Orchestra (w/Israel Houghton and Cindy Cruise), and James Cleveland. Sparks has recorded over 200 commercials for Radio and TV as a writer, player, and producer. He serves as an educational consultant for Evans Drumheads, Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Mallets and Sticks, and Latin Percussion Music Group.