On behalf of The George Shirley Vocal Competition (GSVC), Videmus and SmithJackson Arts, we would like to thank all of our donors for your generous gifts. Your support and commitment to the growth of The George Shirley Vocal Competition (GSVC) is sincerely appreciated. Each year GSVC continues to advance its mission of encouraging the study of African American composition and vocal repertoire and fostering the talents of students of all ethnicities. Our goal is to awaken the interest of young talented singers and composers to this music, to educate and cultivate a generation of talent to perform this repertoire, and preserve the value and tradition of this cultural treasure.With the help of donations from supporters such as you we hope to inspire the talents of the next generation of singers and composers.
Support this year’s competition by making a donation.
Our Donors
The George Shirley Vocal Competition is made possible by the generous donations of countless individuals and organizations. Please join us in thanking our donors!
Placement Prize Donors
Sponsored by several donors
(First Prize, Pre-Professional Division)
Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin.
(Second Prize, Pre-Professional Division)
In honor of James and Carole Rose
(Third Prize, Pre-Professional Division)
Sponsored by anonymous donor
(First Prize, College Division)
In honor of James and Carole Rose
(Second Prize, College Division)
Sponsored by several donors
(Third Prize, College Division)
Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses
(First Prize, High School Division)
Sponsored by Earl Coleman and Our Own Thing Chorale
(Second Prize, High School Division)
Sponsored by Chauncey Packer
(Third Prize, High School Division)
Sponsored by Susan and Dorothy Ignasiak and Videmus
(International students prizes)
Composition Prizes for African American Composers
Sponsored by Marquita Lister Art Song Composition Prize
(for African American Composers)
Sponsored by Opera on Tap Rochester Prize for a
newly commissioned work to premiere in Rochester, NY
Sponsored by Karen Slack Prize for a newly commissioned work
(awarded to a singer)
Special Prize Donors
Sponsored by Myra Merritt
(Soprano Prize)
Sponsored by Hilda Harris
(Mezzo Soprano Prize)
Sponsored by Carrie and Magnus Wilson in honor of George Shirley
(Tenor Prize)
Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of Christal Rose
(Baritone Prize)
Sponsored by Wills Patterson
(Art Song Prize)
Sponsored by Kenneth Overton
(Contemporary Art Song Prize for Pre-professional division)
(Composed after the year 2000)
Sponsored by Kenneth Overton
(Contemporary Spiritual Prize for Pre-professional division)
(Composed after the year 2000)
Sponsored by Patricia Miller
Operatic Aria Prize
Sponsored by Robert Sims
Spiritual Prize
Sponsored by Patrice Eaton
Spiritual Prize
Sponsored by Charsie R. Sawyer and Laura English Robinson
Women Composers Prize
Sponsored by Opera on Tap Rochester
Self Identify LGBTQIA+ Singer