The Express’ Jim Sabataso sat down with local musician and MSJ musical director Mark Harding to chat about Prince, performing and his favorite Beatle.

How many instruments do you play?

Twenty-eight, at differing levels.

Wow. You got Prince beat.

How many does he play?

Like, twenty-seven, I think. If you had to choose, what’s your favorite play?

If I’m playing alone, guitar or piano. I like the fullness they give you.

Who’s been your biggest influence musically?

My father. He was a jazz player. He led me to the fundamental understanding that if you learn chords, you can play anything you want.

What’s your most memorable musical moment?

Hmm. I’ve played 200 gigs a year for the last 25 years, but I’d say it was meeting my wife, Kerry, on stage.

And finally, because you’re a musician I have to ask this: Who’s your favorite Beatle?

[Producer] George Martin. He’s the guy that led them beyond basic pop, and allowed them to become great.

He made Paul learn piano so no George Martin, no “Let it Be.”

Best answer to that question yet.