Alexandria, VA – “We envision a future where all young people have access to the joy and opportunities made possible by the transformational power of music.”
That’s the powerful and seminal vision statement of The MusicianShip, the regional organization that recognizes the excellence of musical and related talent in the DMV, and it’s also behind each year’s revered Wammie Music Awards, with the next one taking place on March 28 in Washington.
The MusicianShip has had a recent rebooting. Director of Operations Dana Nearing feels that they are totally back, and it does seem they appear as strong as they have been at their best. “The DMV music community is embracing us as we return from a brief hiatus, and we are incredibly excited to return to the District with the 37th Annual Wammie Music Awards. The momentum is strong and the excitement is palpable. Hundreds of nominations and thousands of votes have already come in, and people are talking and social media is buzzing. We love all of it and are so thankful for the support!”
Another statement on their website powerfully reiterates The MusicianShip’s ongoing aim “to empower youth and emerging musicians from communities throughout the DC metropolitan region and beyond by providing free music education and enrichment programs that build skills and amplify talents, resulting in positive life-changing outcomes.”
“We are honored to be able to provide this platform,” said Nearing, “and to uplift and celebrate the DMV music scene and ultimately serve our city’s youth, the next generation of artists.”
Not only will there be musical competitors from all over the area as usual, but four Alexandrian artists have submitted their material for nomination and have a fighting chance to win.
They are:
MADZ: A singer-songwriter, arranger, and music producer, MADZ has built a multifaceted career crafting soulful, genre-spanning tracks.
Jay Columbus: A talented singer, producer, and composer, Columbus’ music blends lush, emotive vocals with innovative electronic textures.
#MalNoCrawford: Known for sharp lyrical precision and an unforced, commanding flow, he represents contemporary DMV hip-hop rooted in personal storytelling.
George Katsos: With an extraordinary range of nominations spanning Americana/Country, Classical, Folk/Bluegrass, Inspirational/Gospel, Blues, and Jazz categories, Katsos’ work bridges traditional roots with thoughtful storytelling and technical mastery.
The Wammies’ awards have always encouraged a wide-ranging community participation in the awards process, and The MusicianShip remains an integral part of the region’s musical presence.
