The Recording Academy announced April 6 that it has restructured the Grammy categories across all genres and fields, bringing the total number of categories to be recognized at the 54th Grammy Awards in 2012 to 78 (from 109). In a statement Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow said, "Every year, we diligently examine our Awards structure to develop an overall guiding vision and ensure that it remains a balanced and viable process. After careful and extensive review and analysis of all categories and fields, it was objectively determined that our Grammy categories be restructured to the continued competition and prestige of the highest and only peer-recognized award in music. Our Board of Trustees continues to demonstrate its dedication to keeping The Recording Academy a pertinent and responsive organization in our dynamic music community."

In addition to the restructuring and voting changes, there have been name changes in four fields, including the Best Musical Show Album category, which will now be titled The Best Musical Theater Album. The description of that category reads, "For albums containing at least 51% playing time of new recordings. Award to the principle vocalist(s) and the album producer(s) of 51% or more playing time of the album. The lyricist(s) and composer(s) of a new score are eligible for an Award if they have written and/or composed a new score which comprises 51% or more playing time of the album."

To read about all the Grammy changes, visit www.Grammy.org.