Compete in VoiceJam

VoiceJam isn’t just a competition, it’s an unforgettable a cappella experience. Each group will step into the spotlight with a private workshop led by top a cappella pros, sharpen their skills in festival sessions, and enjoy a full 30-minute sound check on stage. From performing in a world-class venue to rocking exclusive VoiceJam swag and celebrating at the after-party, you’ll be treated like true artists every step of the way. And the best part? Winners take home a professionally produced video of their live set—your music, your moment, captured forever.

VoiceJam Dates for Competitors

• Dec 1 – Jan 29:  Submit your audition video
• Feb 2: Competition groups announced
• April 10:  Competition groups’ “performance workshops” and Voctave concert
• April 11: Festival workshops, sound checks and VoiceJam Competition
• April 12: One-Day-Choir

Audition Process 

1. Submit your audition video Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 29, 2026.

2. Criteria:

• Maximum video length: 5 minutes.
• Good sound quality is required: the selection committee must be able to hear clearly.
• At least 70% of the singers in the audition video must be current members. Example- If a group consists of 10 singers, at least 7 of them must be in the audition video.
• Have questions? Email VoiceJam@waltonartscenter.org.

3. Now that your video is ready, what next?

• Complete the audition application and hit Submit!

SUBMIT YOUR AUDITION

Format your YouTube video submission like this:

• Title video auditions: “VoiceJam 2026 Competition [YOUR GROUP NAME HERE]”
• In the video info section, enter your group name and title/arranger for each song performed.
• Whether your video is posted publicly or privately, please make sure we are able to view the video through the link sent!
• Deadline for audition: 11:59pm, Jan 29, 2026.

4. A selection committee will review submissions and narrow down a field of finalists.

5. When will we know if we made it?

• The groups selected to compete will be notified on Feb 2 by email and must commit to the competition by purchasing discounted festival passes no later than Monday, Feb 23 ($25 per person.)
• Each group selected to compete will receive a performance workshop with a cappella professional, Rob Dietz, and tickets to Voctave on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Competition Information

How many competitors will be accepted?

• Up to 8 groups will be selected for the live competition,  April 11, 2026. 

How many singers can be in your group?

• Groups should consist of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 20 singers.

Who is qualified to audition for the competition?

• There is no age restriction. All genres of a cappella are invited to audition. We welcome everyone to participate!

Will the competition be timed?

• Yes. Each group will have 10 minutes to perform one set each. Time starts on the first note sung.

How will the competition be judged?

• Judges will consider pitch, blend, overall entertainment value and level of difficulty. Each of these categories will be scored 1-10.
• The judging panel will include a cappella experts and professional musicians.
• Each group may receive their score sheets for feedback after the competition.

What does the winning group WIN?

• A professionally produced video of their VoiceJam set! Three+ camera angles, professionally mixed audio, and unlimited bragging rights!
• All groups will be recorded and may purchase their video.

What if we didn't get selected to compete - can we still come to VoiceJam?

• YES! Even if not selected to compete, we encourage you to come experience VoiceJam. All groups that submit an audition receive access to discounted festival passes (including festival workshops, a group performance workshop, Voctave tickets and Competition tickets.)
• All participating groups are responsible for their own travel and lodging in Northwest Arkansas. Hotel discounts are available.