KT Sullivan – American Songbook High School Competition

Mabel Mercer Foundation ("The American Songbook's best friend" – San Francisco Chronicle) artistic director KT Sullivan hosts this 6th annual event as twelve finalists compete singing classic popular standards. The goal of the Adela and Larry Elow endowment fund is to encourage teenagers to learn and perform songs from The Great American Songbook that were composed between the years of 1900-1970. This program, administered through the Mabel Mercer Foundation, bestows annual cash awards ($2,500 first prize, $1,500 second prize, and $1,000 third prize) for three outstanding students. Judges include Aisha de Haas (Broadway, TV & Film performer), Will Friedwald (author & New York Sun jazz critic), Elysa Gardner (New York Times arts contributor), Jeff Harnar (award winning cabaret performer & director), Mark Hummel (Broadway conductor, accompanist and arranger), and Sandy Stewart (legendary recording artist). Guests will be treated to special performances by MMF education director Natalie Douglas and former scholarship winners with pianist Jon Weber while the votes are being tabulated. Additionally, the first prize winner will be invited to perform at The Mabel Mercer Foundation’s annual Cabaret Convention at Lincoln Center in October. This should be a singular opportunity to see and hear bourgeoning young talents of today. "Songs Were Made To Sing While We're Young"