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Holly | Denver, CO
HOLLY, WE Love CREATIVE COLORADANS, TOO.
That's why we’re passionate about nurturing the next generation of classical musicians.
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CU Boulder Hosts National Program to Promote Diversity in Classical Music
During the summer, young string musicians from across the country, including many talented Coloradans, gathered at CU Boulder’s College of Music for the Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) summer camp. This program aims to empower string musicians from underrepresented communities and foster a diverse future in classical music.
Founded in 1997, the Sphinx Organization works to prepare Black and Latinx students for professional careers in classical music. SPA, launched in 2004, offers full scholarship summer camps for students ages 11–17. This year marked the first time the program was hosted at a flagship university, partnering with CU Boulder to offer an intensive experience that includes master classes, individual lessons, and career enrichment sessions.
Considering recent shifts in affirmative action policies, educators are prioritizing diversity initiatives more than ever. A study by The League of American Orchestras revealed that less than 15% of musicians in American orchestras were non-white, highlighting the need for programs like SPA.
“We're addressing the serious issue of underrepresentation in classical music through youth engagement,” said SPA Director of Education Ana Abrantes.
SPA serves a diverse group of students and awards numerous scholarships to Sphinx education programs. "Being able to play with people you relate to touches you in a way that can’t be matched," said 16-year-old participant Nicolas Bussalleu from Miami.
During the program, students lived on campus, attended master classes, and showcased their talents in recitals. They also explored the Helen Walker Hill Collection, which features compositions by Black women composers.
According to Alex Gonzalez, assistant violin professor at CU Boulder and an SPA affiliate, “Our world-class music school and collections provide unique opportunities that students may not find in a conservatory environment.”
Gonzalez, who has been involved with Sphinx for many years, emphasized the importance of giving back: “I was fortunate to have a supportive family for my music education, and now it's important to pay it forward for young Black and Latinx musicians."
