Audacy Philadelphia’s B101 (WBEB-FM) concluded its 16th Annual Christmas Choir Competition with a special performance at the Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve Tour at the Wells Fargo Center on December 22, 2024, at 3 p.m. The competition winners, Carl Sandburg Middle School and Pottsgrove High School, showcased their talent before the concert and each received $5,000 to support their school music programs.
David Yadgaroff, SVP and Market Manager at Audacy Philadelphia, praised the participants, stating, “It’s always incredible to see the heart and soul these students and teachers put into their music, especially when you think about the challenges they face with limited funds. The talent in our own backyard is unbelievable, and we’re thrilled to honor these amazing school music programs with our awards.”
The contest began in early October 2024, when WBEB-FM invited schools to submit holiday songs for consideration. The competition included two divisions: Kindergarten through 8th grade and 9th grade through 12th grade. Nine semi-finalists from each division were selected to compete, and listeners voted for their favorite choir on www.B101Philly.com between December 2 and December 13.
In the K-8 division, Carl Sandburg Middle School from Huntingdon Valley, PA, claimed first place with their performance of Carol of the Bells, earning $5,000 and the opportunity to perform before the Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert. Indian Valley Middle School from Harleysville, PA, placed second and received $2,000, while Cardinal John Foley Regional School from Havertown, PA, came in third with a $1,000 prize.
In the 9-12 grade division, Pottsgrove High School from Pottsgrove, PA, won first place with their rendition of Oh Come, O Come, Emmanuel, securing a $5,000 prize and the chance to perform at the same event. Ridley High School from Folsom, PA, earned second place and $2,000, while Springfield High School from Springfield, PA, took third place and $1,000.
B101’s Annual Christmas Choir Competition reflects Audacy’s commitment to making a meaningful impact at scale. By leveraging its reach and deep connection with listeners, Audacy aims to promote strong mental health and foster sound communities through initiatives like this one.