Teaneck’s ever-popular Teen Idol contest will take place this weekend. The 14 finalists, including those from the Frisch School and Torah Academy of Bergen County, are rehearsing their own songs, plus the group song that opens the show. In its ninth year, the contest attracts Teaneck’s terrific teen talent plus enthusiastic audiences who come to enjoy the show and to support the contestants (names are listed at teaneckcommunitychorus.org). What’s more, 2015 Teaneck Teen Idol, Kaylah Harvey, will perform. In 2015, Kaylah sang with Yolanda Adams, and is currently in two Off-Broadway musicals, “We Are” and “Alive.”

Judges will select the top five finalists from the first round of singing, and the audience then votes for the winner. Judges are Jackie Kates, former mayor of Teaneck; Jeremy Lentz, director of the Teaneck International Film Festival; Chiffon DeLoatch, 2013 Teaneck Teen Idol; and Reggie Bennett, Teaneck’s hip-hop, art song, and classically trained opera singer. Once again, the contest emcee will be Anthony Johnson, Channel 7 Eyewitness News Reporter and Sportscaster.

Contestants are coached by two music professionals: Gail Smith, past president of the Teaneck Community Chorus and blues, pop, gospel and cabaret singer; together with William Wade, composer, pianist, instructor and accompanist for the Juilliard School as well as Rosie’s Broadway Kids.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, January 16, 8pm at Teaneck High School. For a complete list of finalists and to order tickets in advance, go to: teaneckcommunitychorus.org. At the door, tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $5 for students. An advance purchase discount is available from the website. For more information, call 201-836-2934.