The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has teamed up with Indaba Music to discover the next great jazz singer. And for the first time in the competition's 6 year history, NJPAC and Indaba are looking for female or male singers of all nationalities who are not signed to a major record label. The 5th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition will take place at NJPAC in Newark, NJ USA on Sunday, Nov. 12.
The competition is named after renowned jazz vocalist Sarah Vaughan. In 1989, she was awarded one of the National Endowment for the Arts highest honors when they elevated her to the status of "NEA Jazz Master".
Deadline to submit is Sept. 5. The first place winner will receive $5,000, an offer for a record deal with Concord Music Group and a personalized plaque. Second place winner will get $1,500 and a personalized plaque. Third place will receive $500 and a personalized plaque.
To enter, applicants will be asked to provide three (3) audio samples of their performances – selections must contain one Sarah Vaughan cover song, and two additional songs; as follows:
- A Ballad (slow to medium-slow song)
- Medium Tempo Standard or Blues
- Up Tempo Standard – including a scat portion
Total performance time for all three (3) submissions combined should not exceed 12 minutes.
Video is not required in the initial application, however, applicants that provide a url video link on the application will be given priority in selection. If selected in the 1st round, applicants will be required to provide picture and a video performance.
Submissions should be a representation of the contestant’s abilities, but need not be of professional broadcast quality. Performances may be a cappella or with accompaniment by live band or a pre-recorded track, and can range from a single instrument (piano, guitar, etc) to rhythm section to large band or orchestra.
To enter visit, indabamusic.com/opportunities/6th-annual-sarah-vaughan-international-jazz-vocal-competition/details
