Student Life

Song Contest

One of Our Oldest and Most Treasured TraditionsSong Contest

Next year’s Song Contest will be held February 28, 2025

One of our oldest and most treasured traditions, Song Contest is the highlight of the school year for many. Song Contest is a musical competition among the four classes, held every year at the Altria Theater in downtown Richmond. Over 3,000 people pack in to see each class present a program of familiar tunes with original lyrics, along with the Saint Gertrude High School alma mater. Judging is based on music, lyrics, spirit, leaders, and class participation. The order of class performance has been determined by a drawing.

Each class is represented by their class colors, and a first and second place is awarded by three judges, one of whom is an alumna of the school and two others who have been selected for their musical background and expertise.

In the week leading up to Song Contest, the classes decorate the hallways with their colors and theme, perform for their classmates, and rehearse, rehearse, REHEARSE.
Students performed in the 73rd annual Song Contest on Friday, March 15, 2024, at the Altria Theater. We were delighted to once again welcome in-person guests and alumnae to the performance while also livestreaming the event for those who were unable to attend in person. You can watch this year's Song Contest and past performances using the link below. We hope you will join us for the 74th annual Song Contest on February 28, 2025!

Jenna Schwab '23

We spend a lot of time preparing for Song Contest, and you are able to connect with others on a much deeper level through this tradition. All of our hard work was worth it when I stepped out on the Altria stage, and it all felt like a dream. One thing I will never forget was all the SGHS alumni who showed up to watch Song Contest. After seeing that, I knew that after I graduate I would be back to support SGHS in the same way.