Sounds & Visions of the City 

A Jersey City Youth Arts Showcase & Competition 

Presented by the Jersey City Free Public Library 

 

🎤 About the Showcase 

Sounds & Visions of the City celebrates the creativity, expression, and talent of young artists across Jersey City, Hudson County, and nearby communities. 

This annual showcase provides a positive platform for youth to shine in music, dance, spoken word, and performance.  

🎨 Who Can Participate 

Open to young artists ages 12–24 in the following categories: 

• Vocalists 

• Musicians & Bands 

• Dancers 

• Rappers 

• Spoken Word Artists 

• Clean Comedians 

 

🏆 Age Groups & Stipend Awards 

Participants compete within their age bracket: 

• Ages 12–15: $500 stipend 

• Ages 16–19: $1,000 stipend 

• Ages 20–24: $1,500 stipend 

All winners receive: 

• Certificates & public recognition 

• Features on JCFPL channels 

• Artist development opportunities 

 🎬 Audition Process 

1. Virtual Auditions 

Submit a video performance (up to 2 minutes). 

Register here :S&V: Performing Arts Showcase & Competition – Fill out form

Send your recorded audition here: jcysauditions@gmail.com

For individuals experiencing technical challenges or preferring an in-person audition, please attend the Phase 1 In-person auditions at the Miller Branch on January 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The address is 489 Bergen Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304.

2. In-Person Auditions 

Selected artists will be invited to perform live for the judging panel. 

3. Final Showcase – June 27th 2026 

Finalists will perform at a citywide celebration where winners are chosen 

⭐ Judging Criteria 

Performances are evaluated on: 

• Stage Presence – 30% 

• Execution – 30% 

• Originality – 15% 

• Creativity – 15% 

• Crowd Impact – 10%

📣 Mission 

To honor and uplift the voices of Jersey City’s youth by providing a platform for creative expression, community engagement, and artistic opportunity. 

 

🌟 Vision 

To inspire unity, confidence, and support among young performers while fostering a vibrant and inclusive creative community.