SarahVaughan
InternationalJazzVocalCompetition
On a Wednesday night in 1942, Newark teenager Sarah Vaughan went to the Apollo Theater to compete in an amateur singing contest. It was the chance to win $10 and a weeklong engagement performing on the Apollo stage. Instead, Vaughan’s win launched a career that would transform America’s original art form and an icon who elevated the craft of jazz vocal music and garnered the respect and adoration of millions. Now, it’s time for history to repeat itself.
The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition is open to solo vocalists of all nationalities who are not signed to a major record label. Singers are judged on vocal quality, musicality, technique, performance, individuality, artistic interpretation, and ability to swing.
THE 2023 COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.
Producers are currently reviewing all valid entries for the 2023 Sarah Vaughan
The top 5 selected for the live portion of the competition will be notified no later than October 11, 2023.
The top 5 selected will be posted on this website on October 12, 2023.
The Application
The Application
Review the list of requirements below to be sure you’re set.
- At least 1 headshot
- A short biography, approximately 200 to 300 words
- At least 3 audio or video samples of your work (YouTube and Vimeo are perfect!)
- A portfolio or any social media you’d like us to review
- Listen to our Sarah Vaughan playlist to get inspired!
2023 Host
2023 Judges
The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition is rightfully one of the most anticipated events in jazz
Past Winners
Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso
G. Thomas Allen
Gabrielle Cavassa
Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim
Samara Joy
Laurin Talese
Quiana Lynell
Deelee Dubé
Arianna Neikrug
Ashleigh Smith
Jazzmeia Horn
Cyrille Aimée