Sphinx Organization Announces 2021 ‘Medals of Excellence’ Grant Recipients

Presented annually to musicians of color who demonstrate artistic excellence, an outstanding work ethic, a spirit of determination and an ongoing commitment to leadership, each 2021 recipient will receive a US $50,000 grant to assist with career development opportunities.

"This award allows me to continue my journey in telling the stories of my culture through music ... I am extremely grateful to be part of the Sphinx family and will continue to use my gift of music to impact the world," Carlos Simon has this week said.

"My biggest wish with this award as the first Latina conductor to receive the Sphinx Medal of Excellence is to keep paving the way for my fellow Latina colleagues so when they reach the top, the landscape embraces them fully and looks equitable and amicable," Lina González-Granados has said.

"The Sphinx Organization has always meant a lot to me, as my late sister Naira was a Sphinx violin alum who introduced me to the organization over 15 years ago ... receiving this award will allow me to fund other projects that will hopefully inspire other future trailblazers in the industry," Titus Underwood has said.

The 10th Annual Sphinx Medals of Excellence will be awarded at a private luncheon co-hosted by The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.