Newfoundland and Labrador’s music community is mourning the sudden passing of Mark Hiscock, co-founder of the iconic band Shanneyganock.

Known for his mastery of the button accordion, Hiscock was a driving force in preserving and sharing traditional Newfoundland music, captivating audiences across the province and beyond.

His musical journey began early, performing in pubs and community halls throughout his youth. A chance double-booking at Erin’s Pub in the mid-1990s sparked a collaboration between Hiscock and Chris Andrews, leading to the formation of Shanneyganock.

Over the next three decades, the band released multiple albums, earned numerous awards, and most recently received the MusicNL Lifetime Achievement Award.

Speaking with VOCM News in 2019 about 25 years of Shanneyganock, Hiscock commented on how he and Andrews had different styles of music that they were able to blend together.

Hiscock grew up listening to more Newfoundland country artists, while Andrews listened to more of the Irish Newfoundland music. Hiscock stated that the group was able to “clash the two (styles) together” and “Shanney-ize” certain songs, which made them unique.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Hiscock was 53 years old.