Presidential Citation – for outstanding district-wide music programs
Outstanding Urban School Award – for outstanding music program in a building within the following cities: Buffalo, New York, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers
Distinguished Service Award – for distinguished service to NYSSMA
Outstanding Contributor Award – for an individual, business, or corporation supporting music education (non New York State music educator)
Early Career Achievement Educator Award – contributions of music educators in New York State at the local level who have been in the field between 5 – 9 years
Established Educator Award – distinguished service by music educators at the local level who have been in the field a minimum of 10 years
Music Education Innovation Award – recognizing new and creative approaches to music education within or outside the school day
NYSSMA Collegiate Educator Award – Recognition for exceptional support and outstanding accomplishments in the service to the advancement of music education in the Colleges/Universities of New York, public or private.