2024/25 ICO Award Nominations

Each year the ICO conducts an awards program to recognize orchestras, conductors, musicians, and volunteers that have demonstrated exceptional achievement. These highly sought-after awards provide local and statewide recognition to both individuals and their organizations. An independent panel of judges reviews materials in spring, and awards are announced in the Fall. Members of the ICO Board of Directors will make a formal presentation, upon request, to each of the award-winning orchestras at a concert or other special occasion.  Only current ICO member orchestras are eligible for these prestigious annual awards.

The ICO is pleased to open the nomination process for the 24/25 Awards. 

Below are the links to the applications for each award. 

Printable 2024/25 Awards Information Packet

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Application deadline: November 15, 2025.
• All applicants must be active members of the Illinois Council of Orchestras in good standing.
• Awards will be based on achievements of the past, 2024/25 season.
• An organization may apply for awards in more than one category in the same year. If applying for an award in more than one category, please submit a separate application for each award category.
• After having received an award, an organization will not be considered for an award in the same category for a period of five years. The organization may apply in other categories.
• A community orchestra is one in which at least 60% of the musicians are either volunteers or are paid less than union scale.
• A college/university orchestra is one in which at least 75% of the musicians are registered students.
• If requested, one on-site presentation will be made at a performance by winning orchestras during the upcoming season by an ICO Board member.
• The Illinois Council of Orchestras reserves the right not to name a winner in every category.
• No applications or additional materials will be accepted after November 15, 2025.
• An awards panel made up of judges drawn from the Orchestra industry and independent professional musicians review nominations representing orchestras, youth orchestras, and chamber ensembles. The ICO Awards Committee members are kept anonymous.