Mission Statement
The New England Music Hall of Fame, established by Angel Orsini, Tommy Bonanno, Christopher Annino, and Kathy Steahle, is dedicated to uniting, educating, and promoting the vibrant musical legacy of New England, which includes Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Our mission is to preserve the integrity of music and the talented individuals who represent it. We aim to leverage the power of music, not only through concerts but also as a vital resource for building inclusive communities, supporting individuals, and healing through its universal appeal, transcending gender and race. We are committed to inclusivity without discrimination, celebrating the diverse tapestry of New England's musical heritage and its impact.
Vision Statement
We will achieve our mission of creating unforgettable music experiences through live concerts and virtual events by recognizing talented musicians and positive contributors in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. These awards honor the incredible contributions of artists in our region and provide opportunities for musicians, music lovers, and businesses across New England to connect, network, and promote their remarkable talents. We are proud to be the vehicle that purposefully brings them together, honoring the legacy of Tommy Bonnano, and Christopher Annino who embodied this vision and is a key reason we exist today, celebrating the spirit of the New England Music Hall of Fame.
Credentials for Nomination Consideration
The categories considered for induction into the New England Music Hall of Fame include Historical Landmark, Music Pioneer, Musician, Songwriter, Engineer, Producer, Promoter, Singer, Composer, Band, and Trailblazer. All music genres from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and the broader New England region are welcome, especially those associated with memorable concerts.
Nomination Credentials
To qualify, individuals must have lived in New England for approximately ten years or more. Landmarks are classified into two categories: 1. Historical landmarks, which are entertainment venues over 20 years old, and cultural landmarks, which are performance venues under 20 years old that have made a significant impact on the music scene. When these venues are inducted into the New England Music Hall of Fame, either as cultural or historical landmarks, they will serve as satellite locations for NEMHOF-sponsored events and music-related activities, including concerts. If an individual is not originally from New England, they must have contributed significantly to the region's music industry, whether by touring or recording.
Cover or tribute bands will not be eligible for nomination. Individuals will receive an immediate lifetime ban if they support any form of racism, sexism, homophobia, or antisemitism.
For Pioneer Nominations, individuals are assessed not on fame or awards but rather on their impact and inspiration within the New England music community. In the case of Posthumous Nominations, if an individual meets the aforementioned credentials and has passed away, they will be inducted posthumously.
New England Music Hall of Fame Media Awards
The NEMHOF Media/Music Awards were established to spotlight both emerging talent and those who have dedicated their careers to the New England music scene.
The Denise Award (NEMHOF Media Lifetime Achievement Awards) is named after our first recipient, Broadcast Legend Denise D'Ascenzo. This is the most prestigious award anyone can receive; Denise was known as New England's Princess, encouraging all to "Be open, be brave, be kind."
The NEMHOF Broadcast Journalist of the Year (TV) award is presented to the top broadcast journalist in New England. The NEMHOF Broadcaster of the Year (Radio) recognizes the leading radio personality in the region. The NEMHOF Benjamin Franklin Award (Newspaper) is awarded to the premier writer in New England.
The NEMHOF Historian Award acknowledges individuals who preserve the history of the New England music scene, awarded to journalists, authors, and documentarians who contribute to music museums and historical narratives.
Other awards include Best New Artist, Best Young Artist, and the Tommy Bonanno Award, which honors those who, despite not being musicians, have shown immense passion for the music scene.
The Bruce Rieder Award is given to the top photographer in New England, while the Artist of the Year is awarded to a non-Hall of Fame inductee who is just starting out in their music career. Additionally, the Best Young Artist award is for musical artists under 18 years of age, and the Country Musician of the Year recognizes the best country music artist in New England. Finally, the New Artist award is aimed at newcomers with less than three years of experience.
Code of Ethics/ Conduct
We welcome and support people of all backgrounds and identities throughout New England, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. This commitment extends to individuals of any sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, social and economic class, educational level, color, immigration status, sex, age, size, family status, political belief, religion, and mental and physical ability, as we believe diversity enhances the music and concerts we celebrate. \n\n"Any nominee or inductee for any award who slanders and defames any fellow inductees will receive a lifetime ban." We all depend on each other to produce the best work possible as a company, and your decisions impact clients and colleagues across these states. Therefore, it's vital to consider the consequences of your choices, especially within the vibrant community of the New England Music Hall of Fame. \n\nWhile we won't always agree, disagreement does not justify disrespectful behavior. Frustration is common, but we must ensure it doesn’t escalate into personal attacks. An environment where individuals feel uncomfortable or threatened is counterproductive to creativity and collaboration, essential components of our music and concert initiatives. \n\nChoose your words carefully and conduct yourself professionally at all times. Be kind to others and refrain from insulting or belittling individuals. Harassment and exclusionary behavior will not be tolerated, including threats of violence, discriminatory jokes and language, sharing sexually explicit or violent material via electronic devices, personal insults (particularly those that use racist or sexist terms), unwelcome sexual attention, advocating for or encouraging any of the aforementioned behaviors, and repeated harassment of others. In general, if someone asks you to stop, please do so. \n\nWhen faced with disagreements, strive to understand differing perspectives. Differences of opinion are a natural part of any collaborative environment, especially in the context of our music efforts. What matters is that we handle these situations constructively. \n\nOur diversity can be a source of strength, as individuals from various backgrounds bring unique perspectives that enhance problem-solving and idea generation for our concerts and museum initiatives. Just because someone holds a different viewpoint doesn’t imply they are incorrect. Remember, we all make mistakes, and pointing fingers rarely leads to progress. \n\nInstead, let’s focus on resolving issues and learning from our mistakes. \n\nThere is a zero-tolerance policy for any individual who defames or slanders anyone associated with the New England Music Hall of Fame, especially if such actions jeopardize their ability to earn income outside of this esteemed organization. The penalty for such behavior is an immediate lifetime ban from the New England Music Hall of Fame.
inspiration
In Memory of Tommy Bonanno
The New England Music Hall of Fame, established by Tommy Bonanno, Christopher Annino, and Kathy Steahle, is dedicated to uniting, educating, and promoting the vibrant musical legacy of New England, which includes Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Our mission is to preserve the integrity of music and the talented individuals who represent it. We aim to leverage the power of music, not only through concerts but also as a vital resource for building inclusive communities, supporting individuals, and healing through its universal appeal, transcending gender and race. We are committed to inclusivity without discrimination, celebrating the diverse tapestry of New England's musical heritage and its impact.
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Do you have questions or want to book a concert at the Museum of New England? Perhaps you're interested in collaborating on a new piece that highlights the New England Music Hall of Fame, which honors exceptional talent from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Reach out, and let's create some music together as we anticipate the New England Music Awards 2024.
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