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Bernice Ash Memorial Award

The Bernice Ash Memorial Award provides $5,000 to support the professional development of mid-career employees of NAMM member companies who demonstrate commitment, creativity and leadership in the music industry. Recipients under 40 also receive a one-year mentorship through NAMM Young Professionals.

Support Professional
Development

Designed for mid-career music industry professionals with at least five years of experience who seek to strengthen their leadership skills through professional development or continuing education.

One-Year Mentorship to
NAMM Young Professionals

Connect, learn and grow through a community of emerging music industry leaders dedicated to professional development, networking and shaping the industry’s future.

Eligibility

  • Be a current employee of a NAMM member company in good standing, nominated by the company’s owner, manager or direct supervisor
  • Have at least five years of experience in the music industry and a commitment to expanding leadership and professional competencies
  • Must use the funds to enroll in a professional development program, which may include higher education or certificate programs
  • Awards are given once and are not renewable; recipients are not eligible to reapply
Download Guidelines

Winning this award is not only a personal accomplishment but an accomplishment on behalf of the greater music community as I intend to pay it forward and uplift other exceptional people who are making an impact in music along my career journey.

ANNA NGUYED

Berklee College of Music

How to Apply

Apply for a Bernice Ash Memorial Award through our annual process.

1

Round 1: Nomination

Be nominated by a NAMM member company owner, manager or direct supervior through the online portal by June 30.

2

Round 2: Application

Eligible nominees are invited to complete and submit the online application by Sept 9.

3

Final Decision

All applicants are notified of the final decision. Selected recipients sign an agreement, with funding typically distributed within 60 days.

2028 Timeline

Apr 6

Nominations
Open

June 30

Nomination
Deadline

Sept 9

Application
Deadline

Oct 5

Award
Notification

About Bernice Ash

Bernice Ash was a music retail visionary who spearheaded the expansion of the family-owned Sam Ash music stores and pioneered the company’s print music department, building strong relationships with publishers and expanding distribution to teachers, students and customers nationwide.

Bernice passed away on December 1, 2020, at age 90, leaving behind a loving family, a devoted staff and a grateful industry carrying on her legacy.

The award was established with leadership gifts from Fred and Dinah Gretsch, Jerry Ash and members of the Ash family and Larry Morton.