Iconic female vocalist Sandi Patty was honoured by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) with the GMA Music in the Rockies Summit Award during her concert performance in Estes Park, Colorado.

The Summit Award honours individuals, groups or organisations in the Christian/gospel music industry that have demonstrated remarkable achievement over time, and have a meaningful connection with the GMA Music in the Rockies event. It is presented only when the GMA determines there is a deserving recipient.

Patty becomes the fourth to receive the honour since it was introduced in 2003. Amy Grant and Michael W Smith are former recipients of the Summit Award. Cam Floria, founder of the event, received one in 2004 on the 30th anniversary.

"The Summit Award gives us an opportunity to honour the contributions of those who have helped Christian music reach new artistic and commercial heights and who have had a meaningful connection to the Estes Park event. Sandi Patty, who has been a regular fixture since she first attended Music in the Rockies in 1979, received the award in recognition of her nearly three decades of unparalleled achievement in vocal artistry and because she has been an inspiration to millions," said John W Styll, president and CEO of GMA.

Patty was presented the Summit Award during the Tuesday night concert that is part of the week-long Music in the Rockies concert series. After receiving the award from Styll, Patty ended the evening's show asking fellow artists David Phelps and the Crabb Family to join her on stage for an impromptu group performance "Blessed Assurance".

In her illustrious career, INO recording artist Sandi Patty has won 39 Dove Awards, five Grammy Awards and four Billboard Music Awards.

In 2004, she became a member of the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame. She has released 24 albums over the last 27 years, selling more than 11 million units and receiving three platinum and five gold certifications from the RIAA.

Patty has performed for four presidents; appeared on the "Tonight Show", the "Macy's Thanksgiving Parade" and "Christmas in Washington"; played Carnegie Hall and has inspired millions all over the world with her soaring voice and humble character.

Patty released her 25th career recording Falling Forward along with a companion book of the same name in April and is currently a featured participant in the Women of Faith conferences.

In addition to the concert-goers attending the Music in the Rockies concert series, the Rocky Mountain resort town of Estes Park is the annual gathering place for aspiring songwriters, artists and musicians, who come from all over the world to be guided and nurtured by seasoned gospel music artists, industry professionals and spiritual leaders.

GMA's 33rd Annual Music in the Rockies event featuring classes, competition, and concerts, distinguishes itself with its emphasis on the spiritual soul in addition to the musical soul of the artist. The legacy of artists that have been discovered or birthed from the Music in the Rockies and GMA Academy experience include current American Idol champ Jordin Sparks and fellow Idol finalist Chris Sligh.

Chris Tomlin, Michael W Smith, Matthew West, BarlowGirl, Babbie Mason, Point of Grace and others are all among the many artists who trace their musical heritage to Estes Park.