NASHVILLE, Tenn. – March 2, 2026 – Tennessee Songwriters Week Knoxville finalist Colleen d'Alelio wowed judges, the audience and impressed his/her/their fellow songwriters on stage at The Bijou Theatre over the weekend, competing against 13 other songwriters to win the showcase. Six additional Tennessee Songwriters Week took place across the state, including at Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge, The Reserve in Kingsport, Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis, Barrelhouse Ballroom in Chattanooga, Franklin Theatre in Franklin and Temple Theatre in Portland. The showcase events highlight seven distinct musical regions that played a major role in the musical development of Tennessee across a diverse range of genres.

Colleen d'Alelio is a cellist and songwriter who has called Knoxville home for 6 years. Her songwriting is inspired by so many genres, including her classical background, coffeehouse, folk, and jazz. When she isn't performing her original music under the name Stranger May, she can be found touring and performing with Knoxville folk band, Redd and the Paper Flowers. She loves recording cello for other songwriters, making coffee, and taking her dog Peppa for long walks in the park.

D'Alelio advanced to The Bijou from the qualifying round held at Flock Beer & Wine in Knoxville, performing per winning song, “Heavy Coat.” Qualifying rounds also took place at Maple Hall in Knoxville, Gather Coffee in Oneida, Cofer’s Garage Beer Garden in Rockwood, MoCo Brewing Project in Wartburg, 1907 Brewing Company in Morristown and Museum Center at 5ive Points in Cleveland. Nearly 60 qualifying rounds took place across the state, including in cafes, listening rooms, lounges, breweries, distilleries, museums, hotels, historic theatres and bookshops – from small towns to cities.

The showcase, presented by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Visit Knoxville, celebrates the craft that put Tennessee on the map: songwriting, in all genres of music.

“This event exemplifies the rich cultural heritage that defines our state,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “We are honored to highlight both the exceptional musical talent and iconic venues like the Bijou Theatre that continue to shape our destination.”

Singer-songwriter Evie Andrus returned as the esteemed host for the event. Andrus serves as president of the East Tennessee Bluegrass Association. Judges included musician, songwriter, and owner of The Arbor Studio John T. Baker, musician and songwriter Chelle Rose, songwriter and former Tennessee Songwriters Week finalist Travis Bigwood and The Bluebird Cafe Brand Manager Liana Alpino. Judges considered quality of the song (original lyrics/melody and clear narrative) and performance (ability to understand lyrics and connection with the audience). Former finalists Travis Bigwood, Sarrenna, Jack Moran and Kristina Stair & Jordan Foster performed.

Knoxville is a vibrant city for live music, and the Bijou Theatre is at the center of that legacy. From classical to bluegrass, country to rock, live music can be found in the historic Bijou and Tennessee Theatres, hosting concerts and Broadway shows as well as performances by the Knoxville Opera Company, the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. WDVX’s Blue Plate Special is a Knoxville must-visit, a live radio show welcoming performers from around the world.

Music legends like Roy Acuff, Dolly Parton, Chet Atkins and Kenny Chesney are only a few of the greats who were born in the region and got their starts in Knoxville. Popular new artists from the area include Kenny Chesney, Morgan Wallen, and Kelsea Ballerini.

Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee Songwriters Week supports music venues, provides songwriters with live performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state's musical stories, history and attractions. Since its inception in 2019, the program will celebrate more than 6,000 songwriters who have shared their original music on Tennessee stages.

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ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.

Media Contacts:
Jill Kilgore
Jill.Kilgore@tn.gov

Lisa Valentine
Lisa.Valentine@tn.gov