Finalists Announced at Sphinx Competition's Junior Division

Showcasing young American Black and Latinx classical string players under the age of 17, the jury selected Brandon Leonard, Gabriela Salvador Riera, and Vincent Garcia-Hettinger as this year's finalists

Organized by the Sphinx Organization, the national Sphinx Competition is an annual event that offers young Black and Latinx classical string players the opportunity to perform before an internationally renowned jury and be mentored by top industry professionals.

Tune into The Violin Channel for the Junior Division Finals from 12–1 PM (ET) on January 27!

The Junior Division Finalists (17 years and under) are:

Brandon Leonard (Cello)

Gabriela Salvador Riera (Violin)

Vincent Garcia-Hettinger (Cello)

Honorable mention went to violinist Alette Williams.

Finalists in both the junior and senior divisions will have the opportunity to perform with the Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, the unique all-Black and Latinx orchestra comprised of top professionals from around the country.

The prizes for the Junior Division include:

1st Place – $10,000, solo appearances with major orchestras, and nationally-broadcast radio appearance on From the Top
2nd Place – $5,000
3rd Place – $3,000

Additionally, all semi-finalists and finalists will have access to scholarships and fine instruments through the Sphinx Music Assistance Fund.