Mark Raisch has captivated audiences with his voice and timeless music selections as a full-time singer and entertainer for the past 11 years.

That may come as a surprise to the elementary school teacher he failed to impress when he auditioned for chorus.  

“Like lots of kids, I liked to sing, but it wasn’t my dream,” Mark recalls. “She actually said, ‘I’ll call you if we have any openings.’ Even as a fourth grader, I knew I’d gotten the brush-off.”

It wasn’t until he watched Fred Astaire in classic Hollywood musicals that he truly felt inspired by the world of entertainment. As Mark’s love for Big Band music grew, he was drawn to the sounds of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey and singers like Ella Fitzgerald and young Frank Sinatra. 

Mark’s public singing debut came at 21 during a karaoke night on a cruise. 

“People loved my singing, and with that affirmation, I decided to pursue music,” he says.

In 2013, Mark and his family moved to Florida, where he took a leap and made music his full-time career. He regularly performs at country clubs, restaurants and other popular venues, in addition to performing with The Villages Symphony Orchestra.

When he’s not on stage, Mark enjoys staying active in his community, giving back whenever he can. He often participates in local charity events and projects. 

Mark has several exciting projects and upcoming shows planned as he continues to expand his repertoire from classic crooners like Sinatra and Michael Bublé to contemporary hits, including country tunes and a bit of Bruno Mars.

“I think the most important lesson I’ve learned is to never accept that you can’t do something,” he reflects. “Life is short. Take that chance, fight for what you love and give all the passion you can. If you’re remembered for that, you’ll be remembered well.”

Photos: Matthew Gaulin