Nominate an Honoree

Each nominee must have a verified relationship to Oswego County through one or more of the following: 

• Residency (past or present; minimum of five years required for the Joseph P. Spereno Award) 

• Birth or upbringing in Oswego County 

• Performance history in local venues, schools, programs, or community events 

• Impact on local musicians, audiences, or the community 

• Educational service within Oswego County 

• Long-term representation of Oswego County’s music culture

Nominees must have made meaningful contributions to music in Oswego County.
These contributions may come from performing, teaching, creating, organizing, or supporting the local music community.

Eligible contributions include (but are not limited to):

• Live Performance – Consistent involvement in local music events, concerts, festivals, community celebrations, or venue performances.
• Original Music Creation – Writing, composing, or recording original works that have contributed to the musical identity of Oswego County.
• Music Education – Teaching or mentoring musicians of any age through private lessons, school programs, workshops, community classes, or youth programs.
• Community Music Leadership – Leading ensembles, directing choirs or bands, coordinating local music groups, or supporting music initiatives that bring people together.
• Event Organizing or Music Advocacy – Creating opportunities for musicians to perform,  advocating for music access, or uplifting local talent.
• Service Through Music – Using music to support others, including volunteer performances, benefit concerts, or community support.
• Preservation of Oswego County’s Music History -Promoting, or preserving the rich musical traditions and legacy of Oswego County.

Together, these contributions reflect how nominees have strengthened, enriched, or inspired the musical life of the community.

Please include the following materials with your nomination:

• A short biography or summary of the nominee
• Photos when available
• Proof of achievements related to the award category
• Optional supporting materials such as audio links, videos, news articles, or letters of support

Providing clear documentation helps the committee accurately review and evaluate each nomination.

• Scroll for full criteria below. By applying, you confirm that the nominee meets the eligibility requirements.
• Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis with no specific deadline.
• All submitted materials become the permanent property of the Oswego Music Hall of Fame (OMHOF) and will not be returned.
• If the nominee is selected, the materials may be used on our website or in publications. Additional photographs may be requested if needed.
• Applications will only be considered if complete. All questions must be answered and supporting documentation included.
• If the nominee is not selected in the current year, the application will remain active for future consideration. While the application does not expire, it is recommended that submitters update the information annually.