The best music artists in the world will be honoured once again at this weekend’s Grammy Awards.

But, beginning next year, the people who made them the best will also be honoured.

For the first time, music teachers will be eligible for a Grammy Award.

Recording Academy president Neil Portnow announced the new award yesterday at the Grammy Foundation’s 15th annual Music Preservation Project event.

“We’re dedicated to preserving the great music of the past, present and future,” he said. “Music education is perhaps the most vital part of the Grammy Foundation’s mission.”

Kindergarten through college teachers are eligible for the new annual award, which will be presented at a special ceremony the day before the Grammy Awards. Students and colleagues can nominate candidates online.