ISMEARISE Award
ARTIST RECOGNITION IN SUPPORT OF MUSIC EDUCATION
AboutARISE Award
ISME ARISE Award
Artist Recognition in Support of Music Education
The ISME ARISE Award recognizes artists who use their voice, influence and platform to inspire, empower and support music education. Presented by the International Society for Music Education, the award celebrates artists whose work extends beyond the stage—helping young people experience the transformative power of music and strengthening the place of music education in communities around the world.
Inspiring. Empowering. Supporting Music Education.
Artists can help shape how people understand and value music education. Through advocacy, philanthropy, mentorship and direct engagement with young people, they can open doors, amplify important causes and inspire the next generation of musicians and creators. The ARISE Award honors artists who demonstrate a meaningful commitment to this work.
2026 ARISE Award Recipient
Tenille Townes
Canadian singer-songwriter Tenille Townes was named the inaugural recipient of the ISME ARISE Award in recognition of her commitment to empowering young people and supporting music education. Townes received the award during the 37th ISME World Conference in Montréal, Canada, where she also delivered a keynote presentation sharing her experiences as an artist, songwriter and advocate. Through her music and charitable work, Townes has consistently used her platform to create opportunities for young people, strengthen communities and demonstrate how artists can make a lasting difference beyond their performances.
“Thank you, Tenille, for using your voice and platform to inspire, empower and support music education around the world.”
International Society for Music Education
Celebrating the Inaugural ARISE Award
The presentation of the first ARISE Award marked an important moment for ISME: bringing the international music education community together with an artist whose work reflects the values of inspiration, service and meaningful social impact. Tenille’s participation in the Montréal conference helped connect educators, researchers, students and music professionals with the personal experiences and sense of purpose behind her work.
About the International Society for Music Education
The International Society for Music Education believes that every person has the right to participate fully in music. ISME connects music educators, researchers, artists and advocates across the world to advance music education and expand access to meaningful musical experiences.
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