I have always rewarded exceptional achievement in the way of special awards, complete with medallions, trophies, scholarships, gifts, etc., at our year end recital.  I do not give the awards out lightly, and the students must have worked very hard to earn them.   There are mixed reviews about this subject in the piano teaching world, and some teachers are not of the same mind.  Which is completely understandable – for their studio.  If you are one of those teachers who works hard on their teacher / student / piano family relationships and has connections with each of your students, special awards can be a valuable studio motivator.

They do not have to cost a fortune and should be relative to the actual award.  For example, at our year end recital, I handed out several awards:

1. Practice Challenge Awards – students who completed the “25 new pieces in 12 weeks” challenge.
2. Consistency Award – to the student who had been the most consistent in their practicing, work ethics and overall progress since the beginning of the teaching year.  A medallion, new music (either sheet music or music book) and a tuition scholarship.
3. Most Improved Student – to the student who had improved the most since the year before (must be a second year student).  A medallion, new music (either sheet music or music book) and a tuition scholarship.
4. Student of the Year – to the student who had perfect attendance, consistent practice habits, and the best overall growth and progress for the teaching year.  This is always a trophy, a gift (usually a new book of fun pieces), and a tuition scholarship.
5. Performance of the Night – to the student who shone the brightest in all the excitement of the recital.  I award this with a trophy.

I try to be generous – but not overdo it (as usually that comes back to bite me).  Do you give awards at your recital?  Would love to hear your thoughts and ideas.