# Sphinx Performance Academy The Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) is a full-scholarship, intensive summer chamber music and solo performance program for string players ages 11-17, run by the Sphinx Organization, the national nonprofit dedicated to increasing cultural diversity in classical music. In 2026, sessions were hosted at Boston Conservatory at Berklee (June 15-28) and the University of Colorado Boulder College of Music (July 20-31). ## What You'll Do - Study violin, viola, cello, or double bass in an immersive 12-14 day conservatory setting - Take private lessons and masterclasses with distinguished faculty - Rehearse and perform chamber and solo repertoire in public recitals - Attend career-enrichment sessions and receive one-on-one mentorship ## Who Should Apply String players ages 11-17 (middle and high school). SPA emphasizes cultural diversity in classical music, and every accepted applicant receives a full scholarship covering the program, room, and board; families cover only travel to the host campus. Applications open each fall for the following summer and are submitted with a recorded audition. ## Outcomes Students leave with conservatory-level training, solo and chamber performance experience, mentor relationships within the national Sphinx network - which supports musicians from student years through professional careers - and preparation for competitive youth orchestra, conservatory, and college auditions.