Categories

Meridian categories are designed to recognise artistic qualities, creative intention, emotional resonance, originality, and cultural significance, rather than commercial performance or genre classification.

Rather than separating work primarily by popularity, format, or industry position, Meridian recognises music through the artistic and cultural qualities it expresses.

The category structure is designed to preserve prestige, support meaningful artistic recognition, and reflect Meridian’s long-term cultural philosophy.

 

Every Meridian recognition asks one central question:

Did this work contribute something meaningful artistically, emotionally, or culturally?

Entry Fees

First category: $40
Additional categories: $25 each

Maximum of three categories per work.

Educational discounts available for eligible Ascent applicants.

For full details see the Submission Rules.

How To Enter

Artists select up to three categories they believe best reflect their work.

Meridian may reassign entries where another category is considered a stronger artistic fit.

A single work may be recognised in multiple categories.

How Meridian Recognition Works

Meridian's categories are organised into three levels of recognition.

Tier I: Major Meridian Distinctions
Meridian's highest honours, recognising broad artistic achievement and significance.

Tier II: Artistic Meridian Distinctions
Specialist categories recognising specific dimensions of artistic excellence such as performance, visual integration, craftsmanship, cultural expression, and immersive audio.

Tier III: Curatorial Recognitions
Non-competitive institutional recognitions awarded at the discretion of the jury.

TIER I

 

Major Meridian Distinctions

Meridian’s highest honours, representing the institution’s defining philosophy of artistic excellence.

  • The Meridian Distinction
  • The Meridian Voice
  • The Meridian Horizon
  • The Meridian Impact
  • The Meridian Ascent

TIER II

 

Artistic MERIDIAN Distinctions

Specialised recognitions celebrating specific dimensions of artistic achievement and creative craftsmanship.

  • Performance
  • Visual
  • Craft
  • Roots
  • Immersive

TIER III

 

CURATORIAL RECOGNITIONS

Institutional recognitions and jury selections intended to celebrate artistically significant work beyond traditional award structures.

  • Official Meridian Selection
  • Jury Commendation
  • Meridian Archive

Meridian recognises artistic work, not commercial positioning.