Purpose:  To give recognition through service to Music Education for exceptional support and outstanding accomplishments by one or more music educators in the advancement of music education in the schools of New York, public or private through the collegiate level  in the first  five to nine years of their career.

Nominee Eligibility

• Must be an active NYSSMA member who has employed full time in the field of music education for five to nine years.
• Must be employed in New York State at the time of application.
• Has demonstrated effectiveness in teaching young people through music and who has the ability to inspire positive attitudes among students, the school and community in a balanced program.
• Has demonstrated interest in music education by active involvement in NYSSMA as well as other local and district activities.

 Method of Nomination
 Any member of NYSSMA may nominate a person(s) deemed worthy of this special recognition. 

• Complete the form below.
• Upload your letter of recommendation
• Upload two additional letters of recommendation, one preferably from an administrator and the other from a music teacher.

 Number of Awards to Be Presented Annually
 No more than two (2) Early Career Achievement Awards will be given in one year.

Method of Selection 

• The NYSSMA Awards and Recognition Committee will review each nomination.
• If not selected, individuals submitting nominations may petition the committee to reconsider the application the following year.
• The committee reserves the right to not recommend any award recipient when appropriate.

 Presentation
 The Awards and Recognition Committee will recommend the recipient to the NYSSMA President who will notify the recipient.  The award may be presented at a local function.