Overview

The divine Sarah Vaughan—Newark’s greatest musical gift to the world—got her start as the winner of a talent contest. NJPAC honors her legacy every year with The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, the only international jazz vocal competition of its kind, open to all genders and nationalities. At this performance, you’ll witness the next generation of powerhouse jazz vocalists ready to take their rightful place in the global spotlight.

The event is hosted by WBGO Favorite Things host Pat Prescott. Our panel of all-star judges includes Jane Monheit, Christian McBride, Madeleine Peyroux, Al Pryor and Lizz Wright. There will be special performance by 2021 competition winner, G. Thomas Allen.

Finalists Announced!

Darynn Dean

Second Place
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Tyreek McDole

Sassy Award winner
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Contestants are evaluated on vocal quality, musicality, technique, performance, individuality, artistic interpretation and ability to swing. The winner receives a $5,000 cash prize and a one-of-a-kind platform for embarking on a career in the music business. Previous winners include Cyrille Aimée, Jazzmeia Horn, Ashleigh Smith, Arianna Neikrug, Deelee Dubé, Quiana Lynell, Laurin Talese, Samara Joy, Gabrielle Cavassa, Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim and Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso.