2026 Herbie Hancock Institute International Jazz Vocals Competition: Semifinals

For the first time in its history, the Herbie Hancock Institute International Jazz Competition takes place outside the United States, arriving at Paris's Fondation Louis Vuitton! For nearly forty years, this competition has identified and helped launch the careers of some of the biggest names in jazz — including singers Jazzmeia Horn, Jane Monheit, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Gretchen Parlato, and Veronica Swift — and the 2026 edition unites exceptional young vocalists from all over the world to compete before a global audience for a host of scholarships and prizes, including a $50,000 first-place award. In this Semifinal Round, the eleven remaining singers perform three songs of their choice before a jury of internationally renowned jazz artists including Patti Austin, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Roberta Gambarini, Gretchen Parlato and Gregory Porter. Which three will be chosen for the thrilling Final Round?