Rising Stars: Meet Mark Thress of Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Thress.

Hi Mark, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love for music began in my childhood living room, singing with my mom and grandparents. While no one in my family was a musician, their passion for music was contagious. My mom introduced me to a wide range of genres – from musical theater to jazz, opera to rock – shaping my diverse musical foundation.
As a teenager, I performed in musicals and volunteered at assisted living homes, where I witnessed firsthand the power of music to heal and connect. Seeing residents light up at show tunes sparked my early interest in music’s effect on the brain, leading me to apply to college for neuroscience. But at 17, I was chosen to premiere a new musical during an unforgettable performance at Governor’s School. This changed everything. The rush of being on stage was undeniable, and I knew then that music was my calling.
At James Madison University, I pursued a degree in Vocal Performance while exploring multiple genres. I performed lead roles in Die Zauberflöte, L’elisir d’amore, and La Bohème, earning national recognition as a top classical tenor. Simultaneously, I arranged and produced for my a cappella group, Exit 245, leading them to a national CARA award for Best All-Male Collegiate A Cappella Album. My studies took me abroad through a scholarship with the Cornish American Song Institute, where I trained in England with internationally renowned artists.
My fascination with the intersection of music and science led me to pursue dual master’s degrees in Vocal Performance and Vocal Pedagogy at The Ohio State University, supported by the OSU Fellowship. I worked as a research assistant in the Helen Swank Research Lab, spending two years in voice clinics and observing surgeries in head and neck operating rooms. I also helped develop music therapy initiatives, including an iPad-based program for cancer patients and a hands-free electronic voice replacement project in collaboration with Google developers and MIT researchers.
After Ohio, I moved to Nashville to fully immerse myself in the music industry. I’ve since taught voice at Belmont and Lipscomb University and developed Vocal 360 Global, an artist development and mentorship program that takes a holistic approach to the artist and provides numerous resources for developing artists in the music industry. My clients have achieved Billions of streams, opened for major artists like Taylor Swift & P!nk, secured sync deals, performed on Broadway, national tours, television, and cruise lines.
My passion for artist development led me to co-found a nonprofit called New Roots Empower alongside my business partner Sheridan Gates, where we further our mission to provide female artists the education and community needed to confidently advance their music career in a safe, supportive and collaborative environment.
I’m grateful every day for the opportunities Nashville has given me and excited to keep building spaces where artists can grow and thrive.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every artist’s journey has its challenges, and mine has been no exception. While I’ve been fortunate to have incredible opportunities, the road hasn’t always been smooth. Over the years, I’ve fought numerous physical setbacks that nearly robbed me of my musical career. My lung collapsed from a severe asthma attack, leaving my parents waiting to hear if I would make it out alive. In grad school, I tore my ACL just two weeks before performing the principal role in an opera. That didn’t stop me from taking the stage, but my character did develop a unique swagger!
Beyond the physical struggles, I’ve also faced rejection and doubt from people I once admired. I was told, “Your voice isn’t good enough to fit into a chorus,” “There’s no way you’ll make a living as a musician,” and “Give up on your dreams because they’re too big and impractical.” A well-known director even told me, “I’m surprised we hired you.” Choosing music over a more traditional career path in neuroscience was daunting, and the uncertainty of an artistic career came with its own set of struggles.
When I moved to Nashville, I had to start from scratch—building a network, proving myself in a competitive industry, and navigating the highs and lows of a freelance career. Balancing artistry with entrepreneurship meant learning the business side of music, often through trial and error. I also faced my own vocal health challenges, forcing me to apply my research in vocal science to maintain my own voice while coaching others.
Despite all of this, I’ve never lost my love for music. Now, I make a successful living as a musician, I’ve sung for and met several of my idols, traveled the world making music, and built a business mentoring developing artists. Looking back, I wish I had someone to guide me through the challenges we face as developing musicians. That’s why I created Vocal 360 Global and New Roots Empower—to be the mentor I wish I had. My goal is to empower artists with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to pursue their dreams.
Everybody has their own unique journey, with obstacles and challenges that they face en route to their dreams. They’re all valid and allow us to grow in our own way. In fact, I’ve grown more from my failures than I ever have from my successes!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At my core, I am a vocalist, musician, and mentor dedicated to helping artists develop their voices. My work spans across performance, vocal coaching, artist development, and entrepreneurship, all centered around the power of music.
I specialize in vocal coaching and artist mentorship, combining my background in classical crossover and contemporary music with extensive training in vocal science. I’ve performed everything from opera and musical theater to pop and rock, which allows me to work with a diverse range of artists. My expertise in vocal health and technique has made me a sought-after vocal coach, and I’ve had the privilege of working with artists who have tremendous international success.
Beyond vocal coaching, I’m the Deputy Director of New Roots Empower. My position at the nonprofit allows me to develop programming specifically intended to help elevate female artists, refine their artistry, and build sustainable careers. Through these platforms, I’ve helped artists land sync deals, work with Grammy-winning producers, and perform alongside some of the biggest names in music.
What sets me apart is my extensive background in vocal health and artist development. I don’t just teach artists how to sing—I help them understand their voices to increase the longevity of their career, and develop a unique artistic identity. My experience in voice science allows me to bridge the gap between art and science, helping artists maximize their potential while maintaining vocal health.
I’m most proud of my ability to be successful across a multifaceted music career. Over the past 10 years I have performed with symphonies across the country, recorded dozens of songs in the studio, collaborated with multiple Grammy-winning producers, vocal produced albums, music directed large projects, and guested as a master clinician. I have taken solace in the fact that I am writing a story that is unique to me and that my path is one that takes a bit of trailblazing.
I also recently recorded an EP for a new solo project I have developed. I am thrilled at how it turned out and cannot wait for its release.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is health, meaningful relationships, and truly living life to the fullest. Over the years, I’ve learned not to take anything for granted. Every day is a gift, and I try to approach life with gratitude and purpose.
My spirituality has also deepened, and I find strength in knowing that everything happens for a reason. The connections I have with my friends and family are invaluable, and I prioritize surrounding myself with people who uplift and inspire me.
I also think about my younger self often. If 14-year-old Mark could see where we are now, he’d be ecstatic. The music, the experiences, the people we’ve met… I never want to lose that sense of wonder and appreciation for the journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.markthress.com
• Instagram: @markthress
• Youtube: @markthress

Image Credits
Military: Lindsey McCutchan
Red Jacket: Nita Ann
Symphony Photo: University of Iowa
Microphone on Stage: Colin Hodgin