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…
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 time with family and friends to do it? Early in my career, I had to answer those questions for myself. Over time, I’ve learned that every music educator answers them differently. That answer can change…