Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition - Finals & Gala Concert October 4, 2010

The Competition will be judged by an illustrious panel including Patti Austin, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kurt Elling, Aretha Franklin, Al Jarreau, and Dianne Reeves. Immediately following the Competition Finals, a stellar group of jazz all-stars, including Patti Austin, Terence Blanchard, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Terri Lyne Carrington, George Duke, Kurt Elling, Kevin Eubanks, James Genus, Jimmy Heath, Al Jarreau, Dianne Reeves, and Wayne Shorter, will perform a Tribute to the Great American Songbook. The concert will shine a spotlight on some of the most beloved songs and songwriters of all time. In addition, Aretha Franklin will be presented with the 2010 Maria Fisher Founder's Award in honor of her longtime support of jazz, music education, and the Institute. The Competition Finals & Gala Concert will also feature the winner of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Composers Competition, sponsored by BMI.