The Bent But Not Broken Nia Award recognizes an outstanding Black choral conductor/educator in the early stages of their musical career. They show great promise and potential to significantly contribute to the performance and study of music of the African Diaspora. They have an emerging record of transformative teaching for their students. They exhibit a lifelong love of learning and will benefit greatly from direct mentorship from a Legacy Award recipient.

Nominees may apply directly or be nominated by a colleague, mentor, or peer. Nominated individuals will be contacted by our team to complete the process.

Nominees for the BBNB Nia Award should meet the following requirements:

• Black or of African descent
• Early in their vocal music education or choral conducting career (3–6 years)
• Shows promise and potential to significantly contribute to the performance and/or study of music of the African Diaspora
• Shows interest and ability to present at conferences and/or lead honor choir ensembles
• Shows interest in mentorship and a love of lifelong learning

All nominees must submit the following materials:

• Resume and/or CV
• Headshot
• 500-word bio
• Cover letter outlining professional experience and goals
• One 500-word written response covering the following prompts:
  • What is the importance of music of the African Diaspora, and have you grounded these musics in your work?
  • Describe a time when a teacher and/or mentor changed your life.
  • What impact do you hope to have on your students, singers, and/or community?
• A video submission of your answer to the above questions (required, see guidelines below)
• Exhibits of exemplary teaching, conducting, and/or musical leadership (lesson plans, program materials, etc.)
• Confirmation of ability to attend the BBNB conference should you be selected as a semifinalist or winner

Video Submission Guidelines
We want to see and hear you. Your video is the closest thing we have to meeting you in person.

• Landscape orientation, well-lit, with your face clearly visible
• Share your own words in response to the prompts above. This should reflect your authentic voice, not AI-generated or scripted content.
• 5 minutes

Applications are reviewed in two stages:

• Portfolio review: A panel reviews all written materials, videos, and supporting exhibits against a published scoring rubric.
• Semifinalist interview: A small group of semifinalists will be invited to a short interview with members of the review panel.

Timeline

• Nominations Now Open
• Applications close: September 21, 2026
• Semifinalists notified / interviews: October 15, 2026
• Winner announced: At Bent But Not Broken, November 20, 2026