WDTE.org: The Sphinx Organization gives space to Black and Latinx classical musicians around the world from their Detroit headquarters

Image credit: Courtesy of the Sphinx Organization

WDET.org

Rooted in social justice and transformation through the performance arts and classical music, the Sphinx Organization gives space to Black and Latinx classical musicians around the world from their Detroit headquarters.

Sphinx Organization artistic director and president Afa Dworkin

(Kevin Kennedy, Sphinx Organization)

Working at the intersection of social justice and the arts, the Sphinx Organization is an international organization based in Detroit with a foundation rooted in nurturing the development of classical artists of color. 

“We’re looking at the issues of representation, equity and inclusion in society but through the present of the performing arts. Nationally, Black and Latinx musicians represent approximately 4% or so in American orchestras and the numbers are actually quite similar in academic institutions across conservatories and music schools,” says Afa Dworkin, president and artistic director of the Sphinx Organization. “Part of Sphinx’s work is believing that in our society, music and the performing arts are a human right and access and participation is something that  should be afforded to a person with an affinity really without regards to race or a zip code.”

***

With their year-round programming, the organization reaches nearly 10,000 people directly and more than 2 million in live and broadcast audiences. Part of that programming extends to its annual Sphinx Competition. 

You can stream the 24th Annual Sphinx Competition for free on Saturday, January 30 at 7pm. Watch Here: 

https://www.sphinxmusic.org/sphinx-competition-concerts/