October 24, 2023 I Obituary
Former Roland VP Mark Nelson Passes Away
Mark Nelson was 68.
Industry veteran Mark Nelson passed away on October 17, following a two-year battle with advanced pancreatic cancer. He was 68. Nelson career in the MI industry spanned 35 years, with seven years at Roland before his retirement from his role as vice president of product management for Roland Americas.
During his time with Roland, Nelson was instrumental in guiding the direction and development of the company’s electronic percussion and accessories divisions, helping strengthen its existing relationships within the channel and expanding Roland’s reach and penetration into new markets.
“Mark was not just a colleague for us, but a friend to many,” said Manuele Barbini, CEO of Roland Americas. “He truly embodied what it meant to be a leader with his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering positivity. He was someone always happy to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word. Roland, and the whole MI industry, will sorely miss him and the impact he made.
Prior to joining Roland in 2016, Nelson served in several key management positions, including executive vice president global sales and marketing for Drum Workshop; senior vice president global percussion for KMC Music; and vice president merchandise drums, general accessories and media for Guitar Center.
Nelson had many passions, and, when he wasn’t jamming away on the drums, you could often find him out on the golf course.
