Jury for the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

The Cliburn International Competition for Conductors in June 2028 will be the first major international conducting competition in North America. The new event represents another major expansion for the Cliburn’s almost 65-year-old history: the creation of a new top-level contest as well as the production of its first large-scale project in Houston, Texas.

The Cliburn announces that its 2026 Gala: Iconically American, will take place Friday, April 10 at the Fort Worth Zoo Reserve. A nod to the United States' 250th birthday, the black-tie event pays homage to the classic elegance of the organization's inspiration and namesake, Van Cliburn—one of the most iconic American musicians and cultural diplomats in history.

Always one of the best parties of the year, this edition will take the party a step further: Texas artists and lifelong friends Lyle Lovett and Robert Earl Keen will take the stage to perform their signature American music.

Shelén Hughes Camacho, soprano and Joseph Parrish, baritone will make their Cliburn Concerts debut with pianist Amir Farid at the Kimbell Art Museum Renzo Piano Pavilion, replacing Nicole Car, soprano and Etienne Dupuis, baritone, who had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances.

The cellist, composer, speaker, and curator forges a new, holistic approach to the visioning and management of his career, including a partnership with the Cliburn team.

In the spirit of the Halloween season, the Cliburn presents free Community Concerts featuring spooky sounds October 30–31 and November 1, 2025 in Fort Worth and Dallas.

Join us as we celebrate with the 22nd Annual Dia de los Muertos en Fort Worth – Celebración de Vida, Arte y Cultura. The celebration parade & and festival takes center stage on North Main Street, in the heart of the Historic Northside District of Fort Worth! Día de los Muertos Parade takes place 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Día de los Muertos Festival runs from 11:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.