LOS ANGELES (May 27, 2008) -The Music Center of Los Angeles County, a national leader in arts education, is seeking nominations for its Annual Bravo Award, honoring teachers and schools for exemplary arts education.

In an effort to acknowledge and recognize the many art educator applicants and awardees, the Bravo Awards ceremony will be held for the first time at Walt Disney Concert Hall and will honor teachers and schools in three categories: Generalist, Arts Specialist, and School Recognition.

In order to be considered for a Bravo Award, arts educators must be nominated by principals, faculty committees, superintendents, parents or through self-nomination. Nomination forms are available at musiccenter.org/education or by calling 213-972-3387. All those completing a nomination form will be invited to attend a free seminar offered to assist in the completion of the applications which will be reviewed by a judging committee of educators and artists. Application deadline is September 26, 2008.

Upon completing an application, teachers and schools will participate in an extensive review process including site visits and feedback by the judging committee, and an invitation to participate in a winter forum addressing key topics in arts education. All Bravo Award applicants will be recognized on stage during the awards ceremony on March 10, 2009 at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

The Music Center Bravo Award was established in 1982 to recognize teachers and schools for innovation and excellence in arts education. It honors educators who use the arts to revitalize teaching, enhance student achievement and foster self-esteem, teamwork and cross-cultural communication and understanding. The Bravo Award is presented in association with Club 100, a group of dynamic women dedicated to supporting arts education programs at the Music Center.