Meet Mark VanVoorhees of Frankenmuth

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

Hi Mark, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
A dynamic blend of jazz and blues standards, original compositions, and high-energy showmanship.

The Voortex Jazz & Blues Band Featuring Papa Kiszka was born from a magical, impromptu jam session at a graduation party. Bassist Mark VanVoorhees gathered a group of talented musicians to perform jazz standards for his daughter Emma’s celebration. As the music flowed, the set naturally shifted into blues, and the musical chemistry between VanVoorhees and vocalist/harmonica player Papa Kiszka sparked something special—an idea for a band that could bring that same spontaneous energy to every performance.

The name “Voortex” is a playful twist on VanVoorhees’ own name and a nod to the swirling, rotating energy of their live shows. What started as a one-time performance quickly evolved into a full-fledged band with a classic sound and a modern edge.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road — but that’s part of what gives our music its soul. Like most bands, we’ve faced our share of challenges: juggling busy schedules, balancing creative ideas, and keeping things moving through lineup changes and life’s curveballs.

But through it all, the love of the music has kept us going. Every obstacle has pushed us to grow tighter as a group, both musically and personally. The ups and downs have shaped our sound — a little rough around the edges, a lot of heart, and always full of energy. That’s the blues, that’s jazz, and that’s the Voortex.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At our core, we’re a group of musicians who simply love making music that moves people. The Voortex Jazz Blues Band blends the heart of the blues with the improvisational spirit of jazz — every performance is its own unique moment. We specialize in creating a connection with the audience, whether it’s through a soulful guitar riff, a smooth horn line, or a rhythm that gets everyone tapping their feet.

What we’re most proud of is the chemistry we’ve built over the years — not just as musicians, but as friends. That connection translates into our sound. We don’t just play songs; we live them in the moment.

What sets us apart is our versatility and authenticity. We can slide from smoky, old-school blues into upbeat jazz or funk without losing that genuine, emotional thread. And offstage, we’re a group that loves good conversation, laughter, and the shared joy that music brings — whether we’re rehearsing, performing, or just hanging out after a show.

Music is what we do, but connection — with each other and our audience — is what truly defines us.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson we’ve learned along the way is that music is as much about listening as it is about playing. It’s about listening to each other, to the audience, and to what the moment calls for.

We’ve discovered that the best performances aren’t the ones where everything goes perfectly — they’re the ones where everyone on stage is tuned in, supporting one another, and letting the music breathe. That kind of trust and openness doesn’t happen overnight; it comes from time, mistakes, laughter, and a lot of shared miles.

We’ve also learned that success isn’t measured by how big the stage is, but by the impact you leave on the people who hear you. If someone walks away feeling something — joy, nostalgia, inspiration — then we’ve done our job.

Pricing:

• depends on the number of musicians, time, and travel expenses. It varies from gig to gig

Contact Info:

• Website: https://voortexjazzblues.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voortexjazzblues/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voortexjazzblues
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvanvoorhees6196