Sphinx Competition
Sphinx Competition supports string musicians through orchestral performances, scholarships, fine instruments, and career development to celebrate talent and address barriers in Black and Latino communities.
Funder: Sphinx Organization
Due Dates: October 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET (Application) | January 20–23, 2027 (Competition)
Funding Amounts: More than $100,000 in total prizes; individual prizes from $3,000 to $50,000
Summary: An annual national string competition offering cash prizes, orchestral performances, and career development while addressing barriers within Black and Latino communities.
Key Information: Previous first-place winners cannot reapply in the division they won.
Description
The Sphinx Organization runs this annual national competition in Detroit to celebrate string musicians’ artistic talent, provide career advancement opportunities, and address systemic obstacles within Black and Latino communities. The competition has Junior and Senior divisions for violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Its 30th annual edition takes place in January 2027.
Finalists in both divisions perform with the professional Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, which brings together musicians from around the country. First-place winners also receive solo appearances with major orchestras. Beyond cash prizes, semi-finalists and finalists have access to scholarships and fine instruments through the Sphinx Music Assistance Fund. The competition is designed as a holistic career-development experience, with activities that may include masterclasses, panel discussions, luncheons, and networking events.
