Last year's $1,000 winners included: Matt Cline, Edmonton, Canada and Shanghai, China/Princeton; Kyra Cioffi, Rutherford, NJ/William Paterson. Joseph Foglia, Raleigh, NC/William Paterson. The first two photos were by Marguerite Lafountaine.

(SUMMIT, NJ) -- The deadline for the New Jersey Jazz Society's juried scholarship applications is Friday, March 27, 2026 at 11:59pm, EDT.

The competition will award three $1,000 prizes and three $500 prizes in three categories: Jazz Instrumental Performance, Jazz Vocal Performance, and Jazz Composition. The competition is open to all New Jersey college students currently enrolled in a college undergraduate music program, as well as to New Jersey residents currently enrolled in an out-of-state college music undergraduate program (proof of residency is required for the latter).

Along with the cash rewards, winners will receive guidance, mentorship, the opportunity to perform with an industry professional, and coverage in Jersey Jazz Magazine. Support is generously provided by Nan Hughes Poole, Cynthia Feketie, Michael A. Katz, and Jackie Wetcher.

For details on how to apply, students should go to NJJS.org/Competition.

The New Jersey Jazz Society seeks to ensure continuity of the jazz art form through its commitment to nurture and champion young musicians, along with showcasing outstanding national and international artists.