Sphinx Impact
Based in Detroit, Michigan, with global reach, Sphinx envisions a day where every young person has the opportunity to express themselves and learn classical music, where audiences reflect the people we see on our streets, and where leadership – on stage and off – includes all deserving voices. We are working toward a future in which our art form reflects our greater society.
Founded in 1997 by violinist Aaron P. Dworkin, and now led by President and Artistic Director Afa S. Dworkin, Sphinx is a movement that catalyzes excellence in the landscape of classical music, with $20M+ invested in artist grants and scholarships, a digital imprint of nearly 100 million, and an alumni roster of more than 1,600 artists and leaders.
$20 million
awarded in prizes, grants, scholarships
150,000
youth served
0% → 22%
driven by Sphinx commissions, BIPOC composer representation in American orchestras
200
musicians placed in orchestras
$2.5 million
in annual Detroit economic impact
“It is difficult to quantify the amount of opportunity that has come from being involved with Sphinx throughout my career. I can say this: I’m not sure I would be where I am today without their support.”
– Jessie Montgomery
GRAMMY® Award-winning composer and Sphinx alumna
“ Thank you because [Overture] changed my life a lot and, you know, I wouldn’t, I don’t know what I would be doing if I wasn’t playing violin for so long. I feel like when things aren’t going well, or like I’m doubting myself, I remember all the things that I’ve done and it makes you feel better.
– Zephaniah Pharr
