American Traditions Vocal Competition returns to Savannah with new venue

The 33rd annual event begins Feb. 16 at Victory North.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The annual American Traditions Vocal Competition is returning to Savannah, Georgia next week with a new venue at Victory North in the Starland District. The weeklong event features singers performing works across 16 music genres in front of judges and a live audience, with the winner receiving $12,000 and a contract with the Savannah Philharmonic.

Why it matters

The American Traditions Vocal Competition has become a cultural mainstay in Savannah, celebrating American song and providing a platform for up-and-coming vocalists. The move to a new, more youthful and vibrant venue in the Starland District signals the event's continued evolution and commitment to engaging the local community.

The details

Now in its 33rd year, the competition features an eclectic mix of musical selections, from pop songs to opera. The event is described as "a giant celebration of American song" by Mikki Sodergren, the competition's executive and artistic director. While the grand prize is significant, the true meaning of the event is the sense of community it fosters, as the singers become friends and collaborate on projects together.

  • The 33rd annual American Traditions Vocal Competition begins on February 16, 2026.
  • The competition will feature elimination rounds leading up to the finals.

The players

Mikki Sodergren

The executive and artistic director of the American Traditions Vocal Competition.

Morgan James

A two-time former competitor who is judging the competition for the third time.

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What they’re saying

“It's a giant celebration of American song. It's quite amazing to be continuing this tradition… a Savannah kind of cultural mainstay.”

— Mikki Sodergren, Executive and Artistic Director (wjcl.com)

“It really helped me to celebrate the diversity of my voice.”

— Morgan James, Two-time former competitor and judge (wjcl.com)

What’s next

WJCL will provide live coverage of each night of the American Traditions Vocal Competition.

The takeaway

The American Traditions Vocal Competition's move to a new venue in Savannah's Starland District signals the event's continued commitment to engaging the local community and celebrating the diversity of American song. The competition has become a cultural mainstay in the city, providing a platform for up-and-coming vocalists and fostering a sense of community among the participants.