31st Annual Syracuse Area Music Awards Celebrates Local Talent

This weekend, the Syracuse music community gathers to celebrate the 31st Annual Syracuse Area Music Awards (SAMMYS), recognizing the talent and achievements of local artists. The event kicks off with a Hall of Fame Dinner to honor influential musicians from the region.

A Vision Comes to Life

In 1993, the inception of the SAMMYS was marked by Syracuse resident Frank Malfitano's vision to create a local music award show. Three decades later, the awards have seen a flourishing interest with 330 submissions from various genres in this year's edition.

Liz Nowak, the executive director of the SAMMYS, expressed amazement at the growing participation, stating that the awards encourage musicians to professionally record their music and share it with the community.

Recognizing Musical Excellence

Artists submitted their work to be judged in 13 categories, including 'Best Single' and 'Best Jam Band.' A nomination committee selects the nominees to represent Syracuse's diverse music scene, leading to a grand celebration of their work.

The awards are split into two main events: a celebratory dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on March 7 and the award ceremony at the Palace Theatre the following night. Among the 63 nominated musicians and six Hall of Fame inductees, the committee meticulously reviews each submission for authenticity and quality.

An Unbiased Judging Process

The final winners are chosen by a panel led by James Abbott, a recording engineer and Syracuse University professor, ensuring a fair and unbiased selection process focused on songwriting and recording quality.

Submission is open to any musician living within 60 miles of Syracuse. Singer-songwriter Steven Cali, a SAMMY recipient in 2019, shares his excitement over being a two-time nominee this year and performing at the event for the first time.

Legacy and Influence

The SAMMYS also celebrate contributions to the music scene through the Hall of Fame, with Principal Pops Conductor Sean O'Loughlin of the Syracuse Orchestra receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award. An alumnus of Syracuse University, O'Loughlin is being recognized for over a decade of impact on the community with the orchestra.

Nowak believes that the SAMMYS have been instrumental in advancing the careers of local musicians and emphasizes the rich musical diversity of Syracuse. The event serves as a reminder that local musicians can find success right in their hometown.

SAMMYS, music, Syracuse