# Sphinx Performance Academy

Full-scholarship summer chamber music intensive for string players ages 11-17, hosted in 2026 at Boston Conservatory at Berklee and CU Boulder; every accepted student attends free, including room and board.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Sphinx Organization |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Boston, MA |
| Time commitment | ~40 hours/week |
| Apply | https://www.sphinxmusic.org/sphinx-performance-academy |

## About this program

# 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.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Sphinx Performance Academy cost?

Sphinx Performance Academy is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for Sphinx Performance Academy?

Sphinx Performance Academy is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Sphinx Performance Academy online or in person?

Sphinx Performance Academy is an in-person program based in Boston, MA. Expect a time commitment of roughly 40 hours per week.

### How do I apply to Sphinx Performance Academy?

Apply directly through Sphinx Organization's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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