
David Tonkonogui
(6/4/58 - 10/29/03)
In 2005, Music of Remembrance established the David Tonkonogui Memorial Award (DTMA) 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 advancing human rights and social justice through their art. The honor includes a cash award of $500 to support continuing musical studies, and an invitation to perform at a Music of Remembrance concert.
Application Information Coming Soon.
Who Is Eligible? All Seattle-area musicians under the age of 18 with an interest and commitment to performing music related to the advancement of human rights and social justice. (See MOR’s Past Performances for examples of works.)
Applications must include:
- A completed application (download PDF file here)
- 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
Send applications to: info@musicofremembrance.org
Click here to watch a video with previous recipients talking about the award.
Previous DTMA recipients:

2023: Khaos Kook, violin

2022: Seohyun Hwang, violin

2021: Leyna Kitahama, cello

2021: Tokuji Miyasaka, violin

2020: Julin Cheung, flute

2019: Sophie Denhard, double bass
2019: Zoe Lonsinger, violin

2018: Kina Pak, cello

2016: Evan Johanson, violin

2013: Takumi Taguchi, violin
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2012: Benjamin Shmidt, cello

2008: Marié Rossano, violin
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2006: Jocelyn Chang, violin

2005: Julian Schwarz, cello