Who or what inspired you to take up singing, and pursue a career in music?
My late Grandfather persuaded me to sing from the age of 10. He saw that I had a future in music, and knew I could go all the way with the right mentors and guidance. He was my inspiration and I’ll never forget everything he did for me as a child.
Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?
Andrea Bocelli and Mario Lanza. I live and breathe their vocal techniques, and their music. I want to follow in the same footsteps as these incredible artists.
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
My current challenge is extending my music and live performance to an international stage! Getting to that next step is always challenging, it all depends how much courage and belief you have in yourself as an artist.
Which performance/recordings are you most proud of?
I would say my most recent recording (“A Tribute To Mario Lanza”) is the best work I’ve done so far. Paying tribute to one of the greatest tenor voices of all time was a huge thrill for me, and to receive approval from Lanza’s family on our virtual duet (‘Because You’re Mine’) was moving as well. Some fans said that it’s hard at times to tell the difference between Mario’s voice and mine on the duet – which is a humbling compliment.
Which particular works do you think you play best?
My party piece is ‘Nessun Dorma,’ one of the greatest arias of all time. As soon as I begin to sing this, audiences rise to their feet. I’m proud of this aria as it kick-started my career at only fifteen years old. I’m certain I will be singing this aria until I die.
How do you make your repertoire choices from album to album?
I listen to around 100 songs and narrow them down to the 12 I think people would most likely recognize and connect with. I also take care to select songs I can tour with. For me it’s all about my fans and what they want.
Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in and why?
I have a feeling that my favourite venue is about to become the Royal Albert Hall! It has been a dream of mine to perform there, and I can’t wait to share the stage with the one and only Katherine Jenkins. It’s an honour.
What is your most memorable concert experience?
When I was 16, I was the support act for Whitney Houston. After my performance, Whitney approached me side of stage and said that I would have fans all over the world. I was shaking; I couldn’t believe that someone like Whitney would give me such a massive compliment. I’ll never forget that moment.
As a musician, what is your definition of success?
Success can be defined in 3 steps:
- Hard work
- Belief
- Persistence
If you practice these three things in your life consistently, you’ll succeed.
Where would you like to be in 10 years’ time?
I would like to tour internationally, perform in iconic venues, and share my voice with the world – like my idol Andrea Bocelli!
Mark Vincent’s album ‘A Tribute to Mario Lanza’, endorsed by the Lanza family, is out now on Sony Classical (88985431772). Mark’s tour with Katherine Jenkins continues until 21 December.
(artist photo courtesy of Sony)
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