The Sphinx Organization proudly announces the 2026 Sphinx Medals of Excellence recipients, of which two are from the School of Music: percussionist Josh Jones and conductor Na'Zir McFadden.
The Sphinx Medal of Excellence is the highest honor bestowed by the Sphinx Organization, recognizing extraordinary leaders in the classical music field who are transforming lives while addressing the systemic obstacles within Black and Latino communities. Along with 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.
We congratulate both Josh and Na'Zir on this incredible honor. Read more about each of them and their careers below. For more information on the Sphinx Organization, visit their website.
Internationally acclaimed soloist and Principal Percussionist of the Grant Park Orchestra, Josh Jones is widely recognized for his expressive artistry and dedication to advancing and advocating for equity within classical music. In addition to his orchestral work, Jones has appeared as a featured soloist at Carnegie Hall, and alongside the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Grant Park Orchestra, the Kansas City Symphony, and the Calgary Philharmonic. During his time with the Kansas City Symphony, Jones became a focal point of national conversation when he was denied tenure — a decision that drew scrutiny from musicians, advocates, and organizations, and stirred broader dialogue about equity and inclusion in American orchestras. After a national protest of the decision and reporting by multiple news outlets including the Washington Post, several orchestras updated their own tenure processes by adopting guidelines created by the Black Orchestral Network in conjunction with the American Federation of Musicians. Jones has since dedicated time to continue sharing his experience in hopes that more orchestras implement these changes. Jones’ career reflects a blend of artistic excellence, educational leadership, and a passionate voice for equity in the orchestral world — making him one of the most compelling percussionists working today.
American conductor Na'Zir McFadden is celebrated for his performances that blend tradition with innovative interpretations. Praised for his “great conducting technique and energetic podium presence” (The Philadelphia Inquirer) and “rhythmic vitality and expressive nuances” (Boston Classical Review), he has recently served as Assistant Conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Jacksonville Symphony, and as a Conducting Fellow with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. At just 25 years old, his career highlights include debuts with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Dresdner Philharmonie, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Utah Symphony Orchestra, Nashville Symphony, North Carolina Symphony, Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Ballet. He also led a recording project with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago featuring Hilary Hahn as soloist. In 2024, McFadden was a Conducting Fellow at the Tanglewood Music Center with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, mentored by BSO Music Director Andris Nelsons, Gustavo Dudamel, and Alan Gilbert. Born in Philadelphia, he began studying music early and is committed to education and community engagement, fostering partnerships that extend the orchestra's reach within the community.