The Athena Prize
This prestigious prize is bestowed upon the choir whose recorded piece and live performances, adjudicated by a panel of esteemed judges, emerges as the finest among the participating choirs.
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The evaluation criteria for The Athena Prize encompass the following elements:
Each choir will have the opportunity to record three “takes” of a selected choral work. This recording aspect of The Athena Festival is dedicated to an annual theme celebrating a particular aspect of the historic choral canon. For 2024, the repertoire is focused on 16th century madrigals and motets. Each choir’s final selection will be determined in consultation with Festival directors from the repertoire.
From these recordings, the choir's director will handpick the most outstanding rendition, which will then undergo evaluation by the panel of judges. The judges will carefully assess the recordings, considering factors such as sonic beauty, overall musicianship, emotional impact, and stylistic integrity.
Live performances will be adjudicated according to the same factors of sonic beauty, overall musicianship, emotional impact, and stylistic integrity. Repertoire performed at the National Museum of African American Music will consist of 1-3 unaccompanied African American spirituals. Repertoire may be selected from any stylistic period for the Parthenon performance (unaccompanied choral only).
The Athena Prize will be awarded to the choir that excels in all aspects of The Athena Festival, embodying the pinnacle of musical artistry and excellence.
Special Recognition Prizes may also be awarded to choirs and directors in these additional categories: Live Performance of a Spiritual; Parthenon Festival Concert Performance; Ocean Way Nashville Studio Recording; The Spirit of Athena (esprit de corps); Interpretation; Conductor; Original Songwriting; Programming.
Join us at The Athena Festival where exceptional performances and the pursuit of musical greatness converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Start Your Choir’s Audition
The Athena Festival stands as a unique choral event globally, intertwining musical recording, performance, songwriting showcase, and musical scholarship into a singular Festival experience for High School choirs. It provides premier choirs with the opportunity to showcase their finest work in Nashville, where it can be recorded, performed, and acknowledged.
Unable to travel during our Festival? Please inquire with us about planning a custom tour for your choir!