The Ultimate Pre-Game: The 42nd Annual Silver Chord Bowl Hits a High Note Before the Patriots Kick Off
NORTHAMPTON, MA — On Sunday, February 8, 2026, New England will be focused on two major "Bowls." While the Patriots prepare to take the field for the Super Bowl later that evening, the Northampton Arts Council and Smith College are inviting fans to the region’s premier "vocal scrimmage": The 42nd Annual Silver Chord Bowl.
The event kicks off at 2:00 PM at John M. Greene Hall, positioned perfectly as the official pre-game celebration for music lovers and football fans alike. In fact, the "Silver Chord Bowl" was originally named as a nod to its timing on Super Bowl Sunday, offering a high-energy, competitive, and soul-stirring alternative to the standard afternoon pre-game show.
"Before you settle in for the coin toss, come witness the incredible athleticism of the human voice," says Brian Foote, Executive Director. "We have a powerhouse lineup of seven ensembles ready to leave it all on the stage. It’s the perfect way to celebrate a New England Sunday before the Patriots hunt for another championship ring."
The 2026 Starting Lineup
The showcase features a championship-caliber roster of collegiate and local talent:
The Northamptones: Northampton High School’s legendary, award-winning ensemble.
The Smith College Vibes: A fan-favorite all-gender group representing the host campus.
Berklee Upper Structure: Award-winning vocalists from the world-renowned Berklee College of Music.
The Amherst College Zumbyes: Known for high-energy performances and deep-rooted history.
MIT Ohms: Delivering an innovative and technical repertoire from MIT.
Notes over Storrs: The premier competitive group from the University of Connecticut.
Viridescent: The University of Vermont’s (UVM) premier all-gender ensemble.
The event will be hosted by Steve Sanderson (Northampton Arts Council/WRSI 93.9 The River) and will include special appearances by Sarah Willie-LeBreton, President of Smith College, and Gina-Louise Sciarra, Mayor of Northampton.
Event Logistics & Accessibility
Date/Time: Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 2:00 PM (Doors open at 1:30 PM)
Location: John M. Greene Hall, Smith College (60 Elm St, Northampton)
Parking: Free on Sundays in Smith College campus lots and city-managed lots.
Accessibility: Accessible seating is available on the first level. Please note there are no elevators to the balcony.
Ticket Information
Don't wait for the two-minute warning—tickets are expected to move fast.
Advance Pricing: $35 (Premium Reserved) | $15 (General Reserved)
Day-of Pricing: $40 (Premium Reserved) | $20 (General Reserved) — Box Office opens at 1:00 PM
Tickets are available:
Online: https://www.freshtix.com/events/silver-chord-bowl-3
By Phone: 678-701-6114
In-Person (General Reserved Only): State Street Fruit Store (Northampton) or Cooper’s Corner (Florence).
Our Supporters
This event is made possible through the generous support of Headline Sponsor Smith College. Media partners include WRSI 93.9 FM The River, WHMP, Daily Hampshire Gazette, The Republican, New England Public Media, and Northampton Open Media. Additional support is provided by Greenfield Savings Bank, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the City of Northampton, and Northampton Arts Inc.
About the Northampton Arts Council The Northampton Arts Council works to support and nurture a vibrant arts community in the City of Northampton. Through events like the Silver Chord Bowl, the Council brings diverse cultural experiences to the residents of the Pioneer Valley.
