“This award allows me to continue my journey in telling the stories of my culture through music. I am extremely grateful to be part of the Sphinx family and will continue to use my gift of music to impact the world.” Carlos Simon
The Sphinx Medal of Excellenceis the highest honor bestowed by the Sphinx Organization.
In addition to a $50,000 career grant, Sphinx annually awards the Medals of Excellence to three artists who, early in their career, demonstrate artistic excellence, outstanding work ethic,
a spirit of determination, and an ongoing commitment to leadership and their communities.
This year’s awards make history by featuring the first-ever symphonic conductor, first-ever oboist as well as its second composer.
The 10th Annual Sphinx Medals of Excellence will be bestowed at a private luncheon co-hosted by The Kennedy Center and honorees will be celebrated at a black-tie event in Washington, D.C.
Described as an “overall driving force” (Review Graveyard) and featured on Apple Music’s “Albums to Watch”, Simon was named as a Sundance/Time Warner Composer Fellow.
Simon is a native of Atlanta, Georgia whose music ranges from concert music for large and small ensembles to film scores with influences of jazz, gospel, and neo-romanticism.
His music has been performed by Tony Arnold, the Third Angle New Music Ensemble, Philadelphia, Saint Louis, Boston Pops, and others.