2027 Heart of America Locations
Register now for one of our 2027 choir championships in three iconic cities.
HOA provides a one-of-a-kind experience
Since 2015, Heart of America has been hosting performance events for the finest choirs in iconic cities across the US. From NYC to Chicago, Orlando to Nashville, Tennessee, we’ve become the leader in professionally produced, educational experiences for performers and fans alike. Located in family-friendly, entertainment meccas, HOA Festivals light up the stage so your star can shine bright. But a Heart of America event isn’t only about glitz and glamour. We are committed to Sharing the Love via random acts of kindness, by cheering on our competitors and through philanthropic endeavors. Heart of America: where our heart beats for you.
OUR BLOG
Welcome to your go-to resource for inspiration, insight and expert guidance in the world of student performance travel and choral education. Our blog features articles that highlight performance opportunities, travel tips, festival experiences and behind-the-scenes looks at Heart of America events across the country. Whether you are preparing for your next competition or exploring new destinations for your choir, the Heart of America Choir Blog provides valuable content to help you make the most of every musical journey.
Heart of America and Thirst Project Continue Partnership Impact in 2026
Heart of America Championships continued its long-standing partnership with Thirst Project during the 2026 season, raising nearly $10,000 through events in Nashville and Orlando. The funds will help provide clean water for almost 400 people for life while supporting a village water project in Eswatini. At this year's HOA events, students, directors, families and audience members donated during "Miracle Minute"...
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Why Compete? The Cost Edition
I taught at schools with students who had tremendous talent and dedication. Those same programs were not the wealthiest. Finance was, and always is, an obstacle. So, when I say that I’ve had this same objection, I mean it: “It’s just too expensive.” This is the most relatable objection I could write about. Substitute “We can’t afford it,” and it...
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Summer Camps Matter More Than Ever
Summer camps are more than just a fun break — they’re a vital spark. They give both teachers and students a chance to grow, connect and come back to their classrooms in the fall more inspired, more confident and more appreciative of the work you do all year long. I know educators need the summer to recharge and you deserve...
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Why Directors Choose Music Travel Consultants for HOA Orlando Travel
Planning a successful choir trip involves much more than preparing for a performance. Directors also manage transportation, scheduling, meals and student supervision throughout the weekend. When attending a Heart of America Championship event in Orlando, many directors partner with Music Travel Consultants (MTC), HOA’s preferred travel provider, to simplify those details and create a more complete experience for students.
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Why Directors Travel to HOA Nashville with Music Travel Consultants
Planning a successful trip to a choir competition takes more than booking a performance slot. Travel details, student supervision and scheduling all play a role in the overall experience. When attending a Heart of America Championship event in Nashville, many directors partner with Music Travel Consultants (MTC), HOA's preferred travel provider, to simplify the process and enhance the trip.
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Looking Back, Looking Ahead: Thank You for an Incredible Season
There are moments at every event when we are reminded why the competitive arts matter. It might be the feeling coming right off the stage after your students had an amazing performance. Maybe it's in a clinic room, when something finally clicks. It might be after our awards ceremony, when students, no matter the result, realize what they just accomplished...
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Why Compete? The Fairness Edition
“If you try to please all, you please none.” - Aesop I hear this every year: “It’s not fair.” From students. From parents. And if we’re honest, from everyone. Heck, even I’ve said it! And I get it. This time of year, coming out of March Madness, along with choir festivals and show choir contests, conversations surrounding fairness happen more...
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2026 HOA Orlando Recap
The 2026 season of Heart of America championships continued on March 28 in Orlando, Fla. Twenty-one groups took the stage across six divisions, with five championship groups advancing to finals at Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista - Disney Springs™ Area. From the first performances of the day to the final awards ceremony, Orlando brought strong vocals, creative storytelling and nonstop...
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2026 HOA Nashville Recap
The 2026 season of Heart of America championships kicked off on February 28 in Nashville, Tenn. Fourteen groups performed in prelims in the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center...
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Be Ahead of the Pack: Join the HOA VIP List for 2028
Our Heart of America 2028 dates are officially set! If you are a planner and you’ve ever dreamed of taking your program to the next level, now’s your chance...
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March Is Music In Our Schools Month
March 2026 Marks the 41st Observance of Music In Our Schools Month® This Year’s MIOSM® Theme Continues as “United Through Music” HERNDON, VA...
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HOA Educational Series Webinar: BURNOUT
This one is personal. Every year in the classroom, it happened. Sometimes it was during late fall, getting ready for the winter and holiday concerts and activities...
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Register NOW for a 2027 HOA Championship Event!
Every season, directors tell us the same thing: “We wish we had registered sooner.” Groups come back year after year because Heart of America Championships...
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Heart of America: The One-Stop-Shop for Choir Competitions
Heart of America Championships is committed to providing fair, educational and affordable events with the highest level of professionalism and integrity...
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Why Compete? Welcome to the Series
Why compete? Why take your students on the road, put them in front of judges, clinicians and adjudicators, and give up evenings, weekends and personal...
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Why Compete? The Stress Edition
One of the most common concerns I hear about competing is a simple, valid one: “Competitions create unhealthy stress.” I agree - to a point. Stress absolutely...
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Why Compete? The Subjectivity Edition
Last month, we began a conversation about the good, the hard and the honest questions that come with competition. Each month, I’m taking on one concern...
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Nashville 2027
The Nashville weekend will be an incredible opportunity to share the spotlight with one another and we want you to be a part of the celebration. Our growing concert choir division will be offered along with single voice, open and championship levels. Register today and come join the celebration in the Heart of America, Nashville!
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Orlando 2027
Home to the famous mouse, Orlando is a traveler’s dream with Universal Studios, Disney Resorts and of course all four Disney Parks just a quick shuttle or tram ride away. Downtown Disney or a trip to The Mall at Millenia will keep you shopping and dining for hours. Orlando's Heart of America Choir competition is nothing but magical!
Learn MoreNew York City 2027
Make plans today to join us in New York City! Known as the city that doesn’t sleep, New York City will energize your competitive season as your students take the national stage.
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Ready to Share the Love?
See how students of Heart of America show random acts of kindness, cheer for a group and help other schools.
Discover what a loving “family” choir can be.
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Reviews from our Directors:
This is our 3rd trip with HOA, we’ve now done Kansas City, Orlando, and Nashville. Each location is so unique but the quality and consistency of the event is always top notch. Bravo and thank you. We look forward to future trips with you.
by Justin Sands, Dir. Cedar Rapids, IACongrats! You assembled and pulled off one of the most exciting and competitive events our industry has seen in over 15 years. Bravo to you and everyone at HOA!
by David Moellenkamp, Dir. Los Alamitos, CAThank you for an amazing experience at HOA Orlando. Everything flowed really well. Performance space was great. Thanks for your commitment to high production values. We had a blast!
by Doran Johnson, Dir. Omaha, NEI just wanted to say THANK YOU for an awesome weekend! This is my 3rd time with HOA and I continue to be more impressed every time. You run a class act with a staff that is just the BEST!
by Carla Doles, Dir. Norwell, INThis was simply one of the best experiences I have had in a long time. My kids loved it and so did my administration and parents! We are already planning on coming to Nashville next year so put us down and save us a spot! Thank you!
by Danielle Frerer, Dir. Tupelo, MSThis was truly a top notch experience from beginning to end. The hotel was fantastic, the competition field was great and very diverse; I loved that my students had the freedom to compete, watch groups, shop, dine, and even ice-skate all under one roof. The passion and professionalism has led me to believe that Heart of America will be a big success with a multitude of groups going forward. The adjudication panel was superb, my students and I have nothing but great things to say about the attention to detail, organization, and our overall experience
by Larry Downey, Dir. Jenks, OKThanks for a really great weekend! Everything was top-notch and the future of HOA looks bright!
by Sue Moninger, Co-Founder, Showchoir Camps of America: AtlantaThe venue was fantastic and the sound was incredible. Really a fantastic event!
by Eric Hayes, Freelance Choreographer: IndianapolisIt’s really exciting to see [HOA] flourishing! Being at Disneyland was really special. What an incredible opportunity for these kids!
by John Burlace, Arranger, Clinician, Adjudicator: ChicagoHeart of America is a simply fantastic organization. The staff are kind and supportive, the focus is heavily targeted towards a wonderful experience for students, and the sound and lighting at their events is top-notch!
by Damon Brown, Thirst Project Representative, Adjudicator: NashvilleOur Valued Sponsors:
No doubt producing major national level choir competitions is no small feat! We couldn’t do it without the support of our sponsors: Dance Sophisticates, Gail McInnis Productions, Dianne Holbert Ltd and Music Travel Consultants. Though the students receive much of the applause, we are giving a standing ovation to each of these businesses! Bravo!
