The Sudler Cup

To identify, recognize and honor junior high school and middle school concert band programs that have demonstrated particularly significant high standards of excellence in concert activities over a period of several years.

Nominations will be received from any source and at any time by the Sousa Foundation. The nominations will be evaluated by the selection committee established by the Sousa Foundation.

The Selection Committee is composed of successful public school and university band directors who are experienced educators at this level.

There are no specific number of schools honored each year. Nominations may be received at any time, but the actual selection is made annually in December. Bands that are approved to receive the award will be notified by the executive committee of the Sousa Foundation.

Nomination forms may be obtained by writing or click the link below:

Applications from Texas go to Bethann Adams - 2711 Grants Lake Blvd. #61, Sugar Land, TX 77479     email:  beth.adams@windstream.net

Applications from all other states go to Louis C. Bean – 43481 Orson Street, South Riding, VA 20152     email:  louiscbean@gmail.com

Click here now to download application form

Bands nominated for the award will be asked to submit materials for evaluation purposes. These should include:

1. Concert programs covering the previous three or more years.

2. A recording from the previous year which should include a quickstep type march and at least two other works for band in contrasting styles.

3. Photographs of the band director and concert band. 

4. Press clippings or copies of press clippings. 

5. Solo/ ensemble participation and/ or honor band programs showing participation.

6. Written recommendations from three or more band conductors of recognized national reputation who have heard the band perform recently.

6. An information form to be filled out by the conductor for use by the selection committee.

***Other information as indicated on the application form.  Link provided above.

Bands receiving The Sudler Cup will receive a beautiful silver cup with the name of the band director and school engraved on the base. The cup is approximately 12 inches in height and mounted on a handsome wood base.

The Sudler Cup will be presented to the director. An engraved plaque will be presented to the school and each member of the current concert band will received an attractive individualized diploma.

The band must have achieved and maintained a high standard of literature in the concert area over a period of several years.

The concert band will have placed itself in situations where there has been opportunity for evaluation by qualified persons or has been rated "superior" at state, regional, or national levels in concert activities.

The band should have performed at regional, state, national, and professional meetings of significance. These can include but are not limited to state music conventions, regional or national MENC meetings, and state or national band association conventions.

The director must have been incumbent in his/her position for at least seven years, including the current year.

A number of the students in the band should have participated in district and all-state honor bands or similar all-area groups.

The total program of music should exemplify what is considered a sound viable, music education program for this level of endeavor.

Administration

The award is administered by the John Philip Sousa Foundation and implemented by its executive committee.