Paul Sánchez, D.M.A., associate professor of piano at Texas State University,
has been named a 2026 National Finalist for The American Prize in three major categories: Piano Performance (Solo), Piano Performance (Concerto), and Chamber Music Performance.
This triple recognition across distinct performance disciplines highlights Sánchez’s versatility as both a soloist and collaborative artist, as well as his dedication to advancing contemporary repertoire.
These honors follow Sánchez’s previous recognition from the organization. In the 2024–2025 cycle, he received second place in The American Prize Charles Ives Award in Vocal Chamber Music for his original composition, NEFERTARI.
The 2026 finalist nominations recognize Sánchez’s work with several longtime
collaborators and his commitment to premiering works written specifically for him.
In the Chamber Music division, Sánchez was recognized for his performance of Mysteria
Incarnationis, a large-scale song cycle composed by David M. Gordon, Ph.D. Sánchez
performed the work alongside soprano Kayleen Sánchez and violinist Eka Gogichashvil.
In the Concerto category, Sánchez was honored for his performance of Fabular Arcana,
another composition by Gordon written specifically for him. The performance featured
collaboration with Maestro David Gier and the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra.
In the Solo Piano division, Sánchez was recognized for his recordings of new music by
composer Graham Lynch, works also written specifically for his performance.
Sánchez said he is deeply grateful for the national recognition and views the honors as a
testament to the power of artistic collaboration.
“I am honored by the opportunity to bring new music to life alongside such extraordinary
colleagues,” Sánchez said. “It is especially meaningful to represent the Texas State
University community on a national stage.”
The American Prize is a series of national nonprofit competitions designed to recognize and reward excellence in the performing arts.