Joseph P. Spereno Hall of Fame Award

The Joseph P. Spereno Hall of Fame Award honors exceptional musicians and bands from Oswego County who have demonstrated artistic originality, dedication, and significant contributions to the music industry. This award recognizes both individual artists and bands who have performed and recorded original music, leaving a lasting impact on the local and broader music community.

• Nominee Status – This award may be presented to living or deceased individuals or bands.
• Connection to Oswego – The nominee must have lived in Oswego County, or for bands, at least one member must have lived in Oswego County.
• Performance & Recording Excellence – The nominee must have actively performed in Oswego County for at least five years and have recorded original music.
• Proof of Original  Work – To qualify, nominees must provide proof of original music recordings, which can include professional releases, self-published works,      live performance recordings, or other documented music formats such as      vinyl, LP, CD, MP3, digital streaming platforms, or any other verifiable      recordings.
• Impact & Influence – Nominees should have made a lasting impact on the      Oswego County music scene, whether through musical innovation, mentoring      other artists, or contributing to the growth of the local music community.

• Band Hall of Fame Award – Recognizes bands that have created and recorded original music while performing for at least five years in Oswego County. At least      one member of the band must have lived in Oswego County.
• Individual Hall of Fame Award – Honors solo artists and performers who have recorded and performed original music. Eligible individuals must have lived in Oswego County and have a performance history spanning at least five years.

• Songwriters & Composers – Artists who have written and recorded their own      original music.
• Recording Artists – Musicians who have officially released original works in any format, whether professionally produced or self-released.
• Bands with Original Music – Groups that have produced original recordings and contributed to Oswego County’s music scene.
• Solo Performers &  Instrumentalists – Individuals who have showcased their own compositions in live and recorded performances.

This award may be presented posthumously to honor an artist’s or band’s lasting influence on music in Oswego County.

The Oswego Music Hall of Fame Entertainment Award honors outstanding musicians and performers who have enriched Oswego County’s entertainment landscape through live music. This award recognizes both individuals and bands that have captivated audiences through their performances, spanning a variety of genres and roles within the entertainment industry.

• Nominee Status – This award may be presented to living or deceased individuals or bands.
• Connection to Oswego – The nominee must have lived in Oswego County or, for bands, must have had at least one member who lived in Oswego County.
• Performance  Excellence – The nominee must have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication as a live performer, bringing music to audiences through concerts, events, and other entertainment venues.
• Longevity &  Influence – The nominee must have performed in Oswego County for at least five years, impacting the local music scene through their artistry and entertainment contributions.

• Band Entertainment Award – Recognizes cover bands with members who have played a significant role in Oswego County’s live music scene. Eligible bands must have at least one member who lived in Oswego County and must have performed locally for at least five years.
• Individual Entertainment Award – Honors solo artists, vocalists, instrumentalists, and entertainers who have performed as individuals, whether as singers, instrumentalists, or entertainers in various musical settings. Eligible individuals must have lived in Oswego County and performed locally for at least five years.

• Rock & Roll      Entertainers – Artists and bands who have energized audiences  with rock performances.
• Country Music Performers – Individuals and bands who have contributed to the  country music scene in Oswego County.
• Jazz Musicians & Ensembles – Artists who have brought jazz to life through  instrumental or vocal performances.
• Soloists & Instrumentalists – Musicians who have performed as solo acts, including pianists, guitarists, drummers, and other instrumentalists.
• Organists – Performers who have made significant contributions through organ music, whether in churches, concert halls, or community events.
• DJs & Announcers – Individuals who have played a key role in the music entertainment industry through live DJ performances, radio broadcasting, or event  hosting.

This award may be presented posthumously to honor an entertainer’s lasting contributions to music and performance in Oswego County.

Oswego Music Hall of Fame Enrichment Award

The Oswego Music Hall of Fame Enrichment Award celebrates individuals, groups, and organizations whose passion, dedication, and efforts have greatly enriched the music community in Oswego County. This prestigious award honors those whose influence extends beyond the stage, fostering a vibrant musical culture that benefits both artists and audiences alike. Whether through live performances, educational programs, or community-building activities, recipients of this award have made a lasting impact on the music scene in Oswego County.

This award seeks to recognize those whose contributions go beyond personal success, leaving a lasting legacy that enriches the lives of others. It highlights the power of music to bring people together, lift spirits, and strengthen the cultural fabric of a community—whether through original works, cover band performances, music education, or advocacy.

· Nominee Status – This award may be presented to living or deceased individuals, bands, educators, or organizations.

· Connection to Oswego – The nominee may or may not have lived in Oswego County, but must have made a significant impact on the Oswego County music community.

· Impact on the Music Community – The nominee must have enriched the local music community through activities such as:

• Organizing  music festivals, concerts, and events that showcase local talent.
• Offering free or low-cost music education, including lessons, workshops, and mentorship  opportunities.
• Spearheading community music programs that promote inclusivity, diversity, and artistic development.
• Fundraising efforts to support music education, scholarships, or access to musical resources.
• Establishing music scholarships for aspiring musicians to pursue further education or performance opportunities.
• Creating platforms or venues for emerging or young musicians to perform and gain exposure.
• Promoting Oswego County music through performances, media, collaborations, or public outreach.
• Advocating for the preservation and growth of music traditions, particularly through local cultural events.

· Legacy & Influence – The nominee should have demonstrated long-term dedication to fostering music in the region, with lasting effects that inspire or benefit future generations of musicians.

• Cover Band Performers – Individuals who have performed in multiple cover bands over the years,  helping to keep live music alive in Oswego County through diverse musical genres and offering entertainment to local communities. These individuals may not have original recordings or compositions but have contributed significantly to the local music scene by providing high-quality      performances, supporting local venues, and engaging with audiences across      generations.
• Songwriters & Composers – Artists who have created original music, whether for themselves or others.
• Recording Artists – Musicians who have released original works in any format, whether professionally produced or self-released.
• Bands with Original  Music – Groups that have contributed original music to Oswego County's music scene.
• Solo Performers & Instrumentalists – Individuals who perform their own compositions or create unique interpretations of existing music in live settings.
• Music Educators & Mentors – Those who have used their musical knowledge to teach and inspire students, leading community outreach programs or offering      mentorship.
• Community Music Advocates – Individuals or organizations that have worked      tirelessly to promote music education, performance opportunities, and  public engagement with the arts.

Oswego Music Hall of Fame Veterans Award

• Veteran Status– The nominee must be a U.S. military veteran (active duty, retired, or  honorably discharged).
• Connection to Oswego – The nominee must have a meaningful connection to Oswego County, whether through birth, residence, or significant contributions to the local music  scene.
• Musical Excellence – The nominee must have demonstrated outstanding talent and commitment in music, whether as a performer, composer, educator, or industry  professional.
• Military &  Community Outreach – Preference will be given to nominees who      have used music in direct service to the military or veteran community, such as performing in military bands, organizing benefit concerts,  mentoring veteran musicians, or using music therapy to support service members  and their families.
• Legacy & Influence – The nominee’s contributions should have a lasting      impact, inspiring others through both their artistic and service-oriented      endeavors.

This award may be presented posthumously to honor a veteran’s enduring legacy in music and service.

The 2025 Veterans Musician Award has been generously endowed by Robert “Bob” Spereno and Deb Spereno, a philanthropic couple whose lives reflect a deep love for God, country, and service. Now residing in northern Florida, they remain strongly connected to Oswego and its traditions.

Robert “Bob” Spereno, an Oswego native, was the son of World War II combat veteran Joseph Spereno. Throughout his adult life, Bob dedicated his time and resources to honoring veterans from every branch of the armed forces. Bob passed away in 2024, and this award now stands in part as a tribute to his lifelong commitment to those who served. He was also part of the extended Spereno family, whose involvement with OMHOF includes founding members, long-serving board members, and early inductees.

Deb, born in Chicago, studied fine arts and theater in Ohio before building a distinguished career in education, ultimately serving as chairman of the English Department at Western High School. In retirement, she continues her commitment to service while enjoying her lifelong love of animals and her new community.

On behalf of the Oswego Music Hall of Fame family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Robert “Bob” and Deb Spereno for making this meaningful award possible.

Musictarian Award – Criteria

• Recognizes individuals whose kindness, service, or selfless support has meaningfully uplifted musicians or the local music community.
   
• Award focuses on character and impact rather than musical achievement or longevity.
   
• Nominee may be living or honored posthumously.
   
• Acts of goodwill must be tied to supporting musicians, music programs, venues, or community music efforts.
   
• No residency requirement, but contributions must have clearly benefited Oswego County’s music community.

For historically significant individuals from early eras of Oswego County's music history whose foundational contributions shaped today's music culture.