Malou Oheix wins International Jazz Vocalist Competition in Paris
French singer Malou Oheix has won the 2026 International Jazz Vocalist Competition organized by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. The finals were held at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, marking the first time the event took place outside the United States.
PARIS, October 13, 2026 – Malou Oheix, a 27-year-old from France, has won the 2026 International Jazz Vocalist Competition, presented by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz in partnership with the Fondation Louis Vuitton. The competition's final took place in Paris, the first time in its nearly 40-year history that the event was held outside the United States. Oheix was awarded a $50,000 scholarship for first place.
Oheix performed two contrasting pieces in the final: "I'm Glad There Is You," showcasing sensitive interpretation, and a bold rendition of Michael Brecker's "Madame Toulouse." The second prize went to Georgia Heers, and Lucy-Anne Daniels secured third place. The vocalists were accompanied by a rhythm section featuring Carmen Staaf on piano, Ben Williams on bass, and Kendrick Scott on drums.
The event, hosted by actor Jeremy Irons, also honored Grammy-winning trumpeter Arturo Sandoval with the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz's Founding Award for his contributions to jazz and music education. A special tribute was paid to architect Frank Gehry, whose design houses the Fondation Louis Vuitton.
The competition and gala aimed to celebrate jazz music's international appeal and its historical ties to Paris, while also fostering emerging talent in the genre. The event brought together artists and enthusiasts to honor the enduring legacy of jazz.