OFFICIAL RULES

1. Eligibility

• Open to vocalists age 18 and older.

• All styles within the jazz tradition are welcome (swing, bebop, Latin jazz, vocalese, original jazz compositions, etc.).

• Performers must not be currently signed to a major label.

• Must have a public Instagram, Facebook or TikTok account during the competition period.

• International singers welcome (winner responsible for travel to the Summit; Summit pass included).

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2. Video Guidelines

• Must clearly feature your live vocal performance.

• Accompaniment may be:

  • Live band

  • Piano

  • Backing track

  • A cappella

• No heavy pitch correction or studio editing.

• Simple audio enhancement is allowed.

• One entry per person.

 

3. Timeline (Example Structure)

• Submissions Open: March 18

• Submissions Close: April 18

• Finalists Announced: May 1

• Winner Announced: May 8

 

4. Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated on:

• Musicality & Jazz Vocabulary

• Time Feel & Phrasing

• Storytelling & Emotional Communication

• Creativity & Individual Voice

• Stage Presence (even on camera)

Note: This is not about vocal acrobatics. We are looking for artistry.

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5. Selection Process

Phase 1: JazzVoice team selects Finalists
Phase 2: Winner selected by artist panel (public engagement may be considered but will not determine the winner).

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6. PrizeS

🏆 3 Finalists receive:

• Performance slot at the Virginia Beach Vocal Jazz Summit 2026 (two songs)

• Summit Pass (full access)

• A 3 Month JazzVoice membership scholarship

Travel and lodging not included.

 

🏆 Winner receives:

• Performance slot at the Virginia Beach Vocal Jazz Summit 2026 (20 minute set)

• Live feedback session with featured Summit artist

• Summit Pass (full access)

• Featured on JazzVoice platforms

• A one year JazzVoice membership scholarship

Travel and lodging not included.

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Questions?  alexis@jazzvoice.com