The Florida State University College of Music, in collaboration with Opening Nights, is proud to present the Tallahassee debut of the Sphinx Virtuosi with special guest, virtuoso violinist Randall Goosby. This three-day residency (February 26-28) includes an open dress rehearsal, concert, masterclasses, an entrepreneurial career chat, and outreach activities with local elementary and middle schools.
Sphinx Virtuosi is a dynamic, self-conducted chamber orchestra and the flagship performing ensemble of the Sphinx Organization, the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming the arts. Comprising 18 of the nation’s most accomplished professional string players, Sphinx Virtuosi is redefining classical music through artistic excellence, pioneering programming, and cultural leadership.
“For almost 30 years I have followed this transformational organization that now includes educational engagement at all levels, artistic development for young aspiring musicians, arts leadership opportunities, and top-notch performing ensembles like the Virtuosi,” said Dr. Greg Jones, Associate Dean of Engagement at the College of Music.
“Sphinx Virtuosi is helping shape the next chapter of classical music, elevating exceptional artists while expanding both who is onstage at classical performances and who is in our audiences,” agreed Kevin Maynard, Executive Director of Opening Nights at FSU. “Their mission and their artistry are why we wanted to get them to FSU.”
Acclaimed American violinist Randall Goosby is celebrated for his expressive musicianship and commitment to being an artist who makes a difference by inspiring others. A Decca Classics artist, Goosby champions under-represented composers, notably through his debut album, Roots. The 2025/26 season features debuts with the Atlanta and National France symphonies, alongside a faculty appointment at The Juilliard School. A Sphinx Competition winner and former student of Itzhak Perlman, Goosby performs on a 1708 Stradivarius, balancing elite performance with extensive community outreach.
“Randall Goosby is one of our great violin soloists in the US today,” said Jones. “He has been featured with the Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, London Philharmonic and so many others representing the very best in the world. We are delighted that he will share his energy, innovative repertoire, and artistry with us in Tallahassee. This is one of the musicians you will not want to miss!”
In addition to their work with College of Music students, the Sphinx Virtuosi musicians will visit local schools, guiding young performers through intensive coaching, mentorship, and professional insights focused on artistry, excellence, and representation in classical music.
The College of Music students who join the Virtuosi on these outreach trips will gain vital experiential learning opportunities outside of the classroom. As they observe the ensemble interacting with younger performers, students will witness firsthand how the ensemble supports musical growth while strengthening connections with the community.
“Their work to share the power of music to inspire and uplift reinforces the goals of our new degree program in Community Music launching in fall 2026 at FSU. The residency is perfectly timed as we prepare the nation’s first undergraduate degree focused on bringing music to the broader community,” shared Jones.
Schedule (open to the public):
Thursday, February 26
Open Dress Rehearsal with Q&A
4:00 p.m. | Opperman Music Hall (OMH)
Sphinx Virtuosi with Randall Goosby Performance
7:30 p.m. | Opperman Music Hall (OMH)
Tickets: my.openingnights.fsu.edu
Friday, February 27
Career Chat with Sphinx Virtuosi
1:25 p.m. | Housewright 126 (HMU)
This Career Chat will discuss the trajectory of their careers and the practical steps that these musicians have taken to get to where they are now.
Combined Violin/Viola Masterclass with members of the Sphinx Virtuosi
3:00 p.m. | Wescott 060 (WES)
Combined Cello/Bass Masterclass with members of the Sphinx Virtuosi
4:00 p.m. | Housewright 105 (HMU)
Presented in partnership with Opening Nights. For tickets visit: my.openingnights.fsu.edu
To learn more about the College of Music Concert Season, visit us at music.fsu.edu or tickets.music.fsu.edu for event-specific ticket information.
