The Cliburn initiated Adopt-A-Competitor in 1997, in collaboration with Fort Worth ISD, to give children a direct link to the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Competitors volunteered to present concerts to local elementary school students, answer questions, and take pictures. Students then tracked their competitor’s progress throughout the Competition. Since the program’s inception, North Texas kids have met and learned about 66 Cliburn competitors, including five medalists.

The prizes and awards for the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition

Be one of the first to welcome our new gold medalist back to Fort Worth for a recital at the Kimbell Art Museum.

Be one of the first to welcome our new gold medalist back to Fort Worth for a recital at the Kimbell Art Museum.

A multiday event examining different perspectives in music—such as the work of a singular composer, the music of a particular moment in history, or a significant stylistic movement.

Works inspired by American folk music and communities.

Violinist Tessa Lark is one of the most captivating artistic voices of our time, consistently praised by critics and audiences for her astounding range of sounds, technical agility, and musical elegance.

Violinist Tessa Lark is one of the most captivating artistic voices of our time, consistently praised by critics and audiences for her astounding range of sounds, technical agility, and musical elegance.

Camille Thomas’ rich, yet elegant, sound and effortless virtuosity make her an audience favorite around the world—and bring her back for her second Cliburn Concerts appearance.

He’s chairing the jury for the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2025, then will make his Cliburn Concerts debut at the Kimbell Art Museum.