The Future Maestros Gold Star Award honors exceptional students in grades three through six who excel in music participation, academic performance, leadership and character. Presented by eligible music educators, it is awarded to students actively engaged in school-sponsored music classes or ensembles who exemplify responsibility, respect and citizenship. By recognizing achievement across all facets of a music program, the Future Maestros Gold Star Award promotes broad acknowledgment of young musicians and nurtures the growth of well-rounded student leaders.

Below you will find student and educator criteria as well as a PDF of the award certificate.

Educator Eligibility
Educator must be current members of their MEA/NAfME, teach grades 3-6 music, and/or direct the music ensembles in an accredited school district of their state. 

Student Eligibility
Candidates must attend/participate in classes designated as music classes by the local school district. Candidates must have been in attendance at the school for the equivalent of one semester including after-school ensembles, and be in grades 3-6. 

Award Requirements
Future Maestros consideration should not be limited to any one segment of a music program (for example general music, chorus, orchestra, etc.). 

Awards may be presented at the advisor’s discretion (monthly, per quarter,  yearly, etc.) An individual can only receive one award every school year. This encourages additional students to be recognized. There is no limit to the number of awards an educator can give per year. 

 Criteria  

• Music Participation
  • Candidates must have been enrolled in a school-sponsored music ensemble and/or class for at least one semester of the current school year grades 3-6.
• Academic Achievement
  • Candidates must have maintained a minimum of an A average grade or equivalent in music for the previous grading period with no academic ineligibility. Association members may make exceptions to these requirements at their discretion with the school administrator’s approval.
• Leadership
  • Generally speaking, any school, classroom, or community activity that students are actively involved in will suffice. Leadership roles in both school and community may be considered as long as they can be verified.
• Character
  • One description of the character is a person who demonstrates respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Members are encouraged to take this model and modify it to meet their local needs.