The HomeRoom National Show Choir Rankings are an attempt to do the impossible - quantify a subjective art form. This week's rankings are the first of the 2026 season, with Iowa leading the way

As the Indiana competition season enters full gear, every division sees a top three shakeup

Stock image: Derrick Knight | Carthage took their first win since 2019, and out-of-state groups Broken Arrow and Mt. Zion outpaced great Missouri ensembles.

Stock image: Derrick Knight | In what was the only show in the state on Saturday, Emerald Elegance and Rhythm in Red put on performances that landed both on the podium.

Stock image: Derrick Knight | Familiar powerhouses Cosby, Manchester, Thomas Dale and Amherst County will be joined by up-and-comers Kecoughtan, Poquoson, MidBROthian and more.

West Jones and Tupelo scored incredible victories over large fields, Brandon took care of business at NEJ, and more.

Ankeny Centennial stayed undefeated, West Jones pulled off a gigantic upset, Gretna dominated, and middle mixed at Fishers exceeded all expectations.

Alva, Lexington, Edmond Memorial, Edmond Santa Fe, Durant and Bethany are among the headlining programs in attendance.

The Indianapolis metro season kicks off with a big contest, Oak Mountain brings battles in every division, Waukee Northwest features yet another Des Moines throwdown, and Papio South rings true to the name of Titan Classic.

Illinois’ competition circuit is finally getting its start at Crete-Monee, now the state’s perennial inaugural competition after Mt. Zion’s move to later in the season. Naturally, many choirs are entering their first competitive outing of the 2026 season, however some have competed already and are looking to either continue their success or in some cases, mark a turning point from a rougher first outing. Nonetheless, storylines will converge, and the Illinois circuit will hav