Detroit, MI
Sphinx competition: how to prepare
Sphinx Competition screens applicants before any live round. Yes. A video audition is required, one piece per file with no editing and the applicant on screen throughout. Finals are live in Detroit. The fastest way to know your take is at standard is to score it on the same five dimensions a panel listens for, before you ever hit submit.
Eligibility, repertoire, and dates change every cycle. Always confirm the current, official rules before you prepare: Sphinx official site
Frequently asked
Does the Sphinx competition use a recorded or video round?
Yes. A video audition is required, one piece per file with no editing and the applicant on screen throughout. Finals are live in Detroit.
Who can enter the Sphinx competition?
Black and Latinx violin, viola, cello, and bass players under age 30, in Junior and Senior divisions. Eligibility can change each cycle, so confirm on the official site.
What repertoire does Sphinx require?
Varies by division and cycle, typically including Bach and concerto repertoire. Confirm the current list on the official site. Always confirm the exact, current requirements on the official page.
How can I practice my Sphinx prescreen recording?
Record your prescreen excerpt on Orchestra Kingdom and get an Advance, Callback, or Not Yet verdict with scores on tone, intonation, rhythm, tempo, and musicality, the same dimensions a panel weighs, before you submit. Your first take is free, no signup.
Send your Sphinx video knowing it is your best take.
Record your prescreen excerpt. The panel returns your verdict plus five-dimension scores. First take is free, no signup.
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