David Tonkonogui Memorial Award

In 2005, Music of Remembrance established the David Tonkonogui Memorial Award in memory of our beloved friend and inspiring colleague, cellist David Tonkonogui. Through this youth musician's award, we recognize the musical and spiritual values which David Tonkonogui expressed through his music and his life.

We welcome the nomination of Seattle-area youth musicians who can demonstrate an interest in performing music related to or inspired by the Holocaust. The honor includes a cash award of $500 to support continuing musical studies, and an invitation to perform at a Music of Remembrance concert.

Who Is Eligible? All Seattle-area musicians age 18 or younger with an interest and commitment to performing music related to the Holocaust are eligible for the award. (See MOR’s repertoire for examples of works.)

Applications should include:

  • Two personal/musical letters of recommendation
  • A written statement from the applicant discussing the personal relevance of Holocaust-related music
  • An audio sample of 10 minutes or less

Nominations, including self-nominations, should be sent by mail to:
Music of Remembrance
David Tonkonogui Memorial Award
PO Box 27500
Seattle, WA 98165-2500

Application deadline: Applications for the 2013-2014 David Tokonogui Memorial Award are no longer being accepted. Information about the 2014-2015 award will be available later this year. Thank you.

Previous Winners:


Mina Miller presenting the 2012 award to Benjamin Shmidt

2012-13: Benjamin Shmidt, cellist
2007-08: Marié Rossano, violinist
2005-06: Jocelyn Chang, violinist
2004-05: Julian Schwarz, cellist