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Celebrating the Next Generation of Jazz: The 15th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition Finalists

Sarah Vaughan, who was just a teenager in 1942 when winning an amateur contest at the Apollo Theater launched one of the most transformative careers in American music history.

Celebrating the Next Generation of Jazz: The 15th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition Finalists
Jazz Legend Sarah Vaughan

Newark’s relationship with jazz runs deep. It is built into the geography of the city, shaped on the stages of historical venues, and carried across generations by legends who called these streets home.

Sarah Vaughan stands as one of Newark, New Jersey’s most revered cultural icons, whose meteoric rise from singing in the choir at Mount Zion Baptist Church to achieving global jazz stardom serves as an enduring source of civic pride and a testament to the city's rich artistic legacy.

That legacy continues on Sunday, November 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET, as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) hosts the top five finalists of the 15th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition (affectionately known as "The SASSY Awards").

Selected from a record-breaking pool of over 360 entrants spanning 38 countries, five exceptional young singers will compete live on NJPAC's iconic stage:

A Special Shoutout to Gary Walker

We are especially excited to see the afternoon hosted by WBGO Radio’s legendary Gary Walker.

Gary Walker | WBGO Newark Public 88.3 FM Radio Host

Earlier this year, Gary lent his incredible voice and warmth as the narrator for our feature, The Undeniable Legacy of Norma Miller. Gary’s passion for keeping the rhythm, history, and stories of jazz alive continues to inspire our audience, and we are cheering him on as he guides this special afternoon in Newark.

The Undeniable Legacy of Norma Miller | IN THE WAKE TV Feature

The Competition Details

Judged by an esteemed panel—including José James, Gretchen Parlato, Jason Olaine, Lillias White, and T.S. Monk—the final performance will evaluate contestants on vocal quality, musicality, technique, and ability to swing. The afternoon will also feature a special performance by 2024 winner April May Webb.

  • Date & Time: Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET
  • Location: NJPAC, One Center Street, Newark, NJ
  • Tickets: On sale now at SarahVaughanCompetition.com or by calling 888.GO.NJPAC.

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