Jackie Evancho gained national attention in 2010 at age ten by finishing second during the fifth season of America's Got Talent. Following her performance of the aria O mio babbino caro, she secured a recording contract that launched a prolific career in classical crossover music, ultimately becoming one of the youngest solo artists in United States history to reach platinum status.
Early Development and Local Recognition
Born in 2000 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jacqueline Marie Evancho began her musical interest after viewing the film version of The Phantom of the Opera. By age eight, she entered regional competitions, including the Kean Idol contest, where she placed second. She participated in the Children's Festival Chorus of Pittsburgh and performed in a school production of Little Red Riding Hood. Through her YouTube channel and appearances at regional churches and events, she attracted the attention of composer Tim Janis, who invited her to perform in his PBS special, Celebrate America.
Television Breakthrough and Major Label Debut
After two unsuccessful audition attempts, Evancho entered the fifth season of America's Got Talent in 2010 via the show's YouTube competition. Her performances included Gounod's Ave Maria, Time to Say Goodbye, and Pie Jesu. Following her runner-up finish, she performed with Sarah Brightman and appeared on The Tonight Show. Her major label debut, the EP O Holy Night, reached number two on the Billboard 200, establishing her as the best-selling debut artist of 2010.
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Evancho has released numerous full-length studio albums, including Dream with Me, Songs from the Silver Screen, Awakening, and The Debut, which marked her eighth consecutive release to reach the top spot on the US classical albums chart. In 2011, she became the youngest performer to hold a solo concert at Lincoln Center. Her concert history includes performances at Carnegie Hall, Café Carlyle, and the 2017 presidential inauguration of Donald Trump. In 2024, she released the EP Solla, featuring the tracks Behind My Eyes and Get Out of My Life.
Acting and Television Appearances
Beyond her recording career, Evancho has pursued roles in film and television. She appeared in the 2012 Robert Redford production The Company You Keep. In 2020, she participated as a contestant on the program The Masked Singer. Her early career development involved coaching under Yvie Burnett and academic transitions between the Pine-Richland School District and online programs, culminating in her graduation from Pine-Richland High School in 2018.
Fast facts
- Born: 2000, Pittsburgh, United States
- America's Got Talent debut: 2010
- Education: Pine-Richland High School
- 2012 film role: The Company You Keep
- 2024 EP release: Solla
- Record label: Columbia Records and SYCO music
Questions readers ask
What was Jackie Evancho's first independent album?
Her first independent album was Prelude to a Dream, released in November 2009.
Did she win America's Got Talent?
No, she finished as the runner-up in the fifth season of the competition in 2010.
What is the title of her 2024 EP?
The EP is titled Solla and includes the singles Behind My Eyes, Get Out of My Life, and Consequences.
Achievements
- Runner-up on 'America's Got Talent' at age 10 (2010)
- One of the youngest artists to top the U.S. classical album chart
- Multiple platinum/gold albums
- Performed at the 2017 U.S. presidential inauguration
