China Valles Next Gen Jazz Competition
The SJO Next Gen Jazz Competition honors the vision of our founder, China Valles, and his dedication to keeping jazz alive throughout our community. In that spirit, Sunshine Jazz Organization has established a scholarship fund in his name to support the next generation of jazz artists.
The first-place winner of the competition will receive scholarship funding and the opportunity to open for SJO’s 40th Anniversary Concert on November 6.
Date: October 2, 2026 | Time: 8:00PM
Perform on a Historic Stage
The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater
Built in 1913, the Lyric Theater has served as a cornerstone of Black arts, culture, and entertainment for more than a century and continues to inspire audiences through music, theater, and community programming.
Today, the theater features a professionally equipped performance space with nearly 400 seats, giving students the opportunity to perform on a stage that has welcomed generations of artists and storytellers.
Eligibility & Important Dates
Participants must:
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Be a current high school junior or senior (2026-27 academic year)
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Be enrolled in a South Florida high school
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Complete the registration form by September 1, 2026
Registration Opens: July 15, 2026
Registration Deadline: September 1, 2026
Competition Date: October 2, 2026
40th Anniversary Concert: November 6, 2026
*Registration is first come, first served and will close once all performance spots have been filled or by the registration deadline, whichever comes first.
Why should you sign up?
The China Valles Next Gen Jazz Competition is more than a performance; it's an opportunity to showcase your talent, gain valuable experience, and compete for meaningful recognition.
All Participants Will:
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Perform live on the historic stage of the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater
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Gain valuable live performance experience before a public audience
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Connect with fellow musicians and members of South Florida's jazz community
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Receive a free SJO student membership and discounted tickets to our 40th Anniversary Show
First Place Award
$2,000 China Valles Memorial Scholarship
The first-place winner will receive a $2,000 scholarship through the China Valles Memorial Scholarship Fund, established to honor our founder's lifelong commitment to preserving jazz and supporting future generations of musicians.
SJO 40th Anniversary Concert Opening Performance
The first-place winner will also be selected as the opening performer for the Sunshine Jazz Organization's 40th Anniversary Concert on November 6, sharing the stage during one of our organization's most significant celebrations.