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"…
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…
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. One…
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. Heart…
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…
“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…
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…
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, with five groups advancing to finals. The day started early with bright blue skies in the southern town of Nashville. Known for its vibrant live music scene, the groups pulling into…
Heart of America Championships is committed to providing fair, educational and affordable events with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. We believe that students can learn as much off stage as they do on stage. Thus, we strive to provide a safe and friendly space where performers and their entourages can stay, perform, eat, find age-appropriate entertainment and learn…
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 I hear from directors and staff - not to dismiss it, but to look at it from a place of experience and growth. March brings us to another concern I hear often: “Judging is…