Sphinx Scholarship Competition

The Sphinx Competition is a national competition for string musicians, that transforms lives by celebrating the artistic talent, providing career advancement opportunities and addressing systemic obstacles within Black and Latino communities.

Finalists in both divisions have the opportunity to perform with the professional Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, comprised of top professionals from around the country, and compete for a total of more than $100,000 in prizes, including the top Robert Frederick Smith Prize.

All semi-finalists and finalists have access to scholarships and fine instruments through the Sphinx Music Assistance Fund.

Prizes

SENIOR DIVISION (Ages 18 - 30)

• 1st Place  $50,000 Robert Frederick Smith Prize and solo appearances with major orchestras
• 2nd Place  $20,000
• 3rd Place  $10,000
• Audience Choice  $5,000

JUNIOR DIVISION (Ages 17 and under)

• 1st Place  $10,000, solo appearances with major orchestras
• 2nd Place  $5,000
• 3rd Place  $3,000

Eligibility

To apply to the Sphinx Competition:

1. Instrument categories are Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass.
2. Participants in the Junior Division must not have reached their 18th birthday by February 1, 2027. Participants in the Senior Division must be at least 18 years old but not have reached their 31st birthday by February 1, 2027.
3. Participants must be a U.S. resident or have a valid U.S visa at the time of applying and performing during the final rounds of the junior and senior division. For questions about eligibility, please contact Competition@SphinxMusic.org.
4. Participants must not have been a 1st Place Winner in their division in any previous Sphinx Competition.

Online Application Requirements

1. Video Audition: Please refer to the Repertoire Requirements specific to your division (Junior/Senior) and instrument to ensure your submission meets all technical and repertoire guidelines.
2. Current Biography
3. High-Resolution Headshot: Minimum 300 dpi. While professional photography is not required, the image should be clear, well-lit, and suitable for all press/promotional use.
4. Personal Reflection Video (1 Minute Max): In a one-minute video, please share what the Sphinx Organization's mission means to you.

Audition Video Requirements

1. Each video file should contain only one piece. You may choose to submit contrasting Bach pieces as a single video file or as separate video files.
2. Videos must not be edited in any way.
3. All video submissions must be recorded in horizontal (landscape) format.
4. Piano accompaniment is recommended, but not required.
5. The applicant must remain on screen at all times.
6. Videos uploaded must be smaller than one gigabyte (1 GB) in size.
7. Please allow sufficient time to prepare and upload videos.