Mark Wastell, born in 1968 in Colchester, England, is a distinguished figure in the realm of free improvisation. A versatile musician, he masterfully plays the cello, double bass, tam tam, and various percussion instruments. Wastell's innovative approach is deeply influenced by avant-garde composers such as Morton Feldman, John Cage, and Luigi Nono, as well as the pioneering work of improvisers like John Stevens and Barry Guy. He has been a pivotal member of ensembles like IST and The Sealed Knot, contributing significantly to the evolution of the New London Silence movement. In 1996, Wastell founded Confront Recordings, a label renowned for its dedication to contemporary avant-garde and improvised music. His collaborations span a diverse array of artists, including John Butcher, David Sylvian, and Evan Parker, underscoring his profound impact on the experimental music landscape. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Wastell?utm_source=openai))