Sphinx Medals of Excellence 2019: Sphinx awards $150,000 in career grants in...DC

The Medal of Excellence, Sphinx's highest honor, is awarded annually to three outstanding classical musicians of color. The medals were bestowed on March 20 in a private ceremony at the Kennedy Center. Each medalist also received a $50,000 career grant. 

Congratulations to 2019 honorees

Joseph H. Conyers, Raquel González, and Will Liverman!

Joseph H. Conyers,

Double Bass

"I’m tremendously honored to receive support from Sphinx at a time where I’m actively challenging the status quo through initiatives in my own community. My hope is that my work will positively impact the lives of young people the way the Sphinx Organization has impacted mine - and countless others."

Raquel González, 

Soprano

"It is indescribably inspiring to be part of an organization doing such incredible things for the arts; emerging performers; and young, aspiring musicians in this country. Being recognized by Sphinx is one of the greatest honors in my career and I eagerly look forward to my future as part of the Sphinx family!"

Will Liverman,

Baritone

"This award will allow me to give back to the communities where I first developed my love for the arts. In my career, it’s been exhilarating to be onstage and spread joy through opera. I hope to continue to share and explore the beauty of classical music and storytelling with the next generation of diverse artists."

Sphinx President & Artistic Director Afa S. Dworkin, Raquel González, Will Liverman, Joseph H. Conyers

The 2019 Sphinx Medals of Excellence are generously underwritten by Fund II Foundation, the families of Carlyle Global Partners, the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and William H. Carson, M.D., with additional support from the Kirkland & Ellis Foundation, the John D. Evans Foundation, Anthony & Adela Glover, Michael & Tisha Hyter, Korn Ferry, Tynnetta McIntosh, Deidre & William Bounds, Terry Woodard, Ken & Penny Fischer, Sandra Gibson, Howard & Wendy Hertz, The R. Bisor & J. Reis Fund, and Drs. Christine & Gerald Zelenock.

Sphinx Medals of Excellence luncheon hosted by Aspen Institute and Kennedy Center.



Photos: Kevin Kennedy