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The Houston Symphony and the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University are key partners in the launch of the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

2026 Cliburn Festival: America 250 will take place March 26–29, 2026, at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth with pianists-in-residence Peter Dugan, Avery Gagliano, and Jonathan Mamora.

Music of American individualism and love of nature

Combining exceptional lyricism and insight with consummate technique, Alessio Bax is without a doubt “among the most remarkable young pianists now before the public” (Gramophone). He catapulted to prominence with First Prize wins at both the Leeds and Hamamatsu International Piano Competitions, and is now a familiar face on five continents, not only as a recitalist and chamber musician, but also as a concerto soloist who has appeared with more than 150 orchestras, including the London, Royal, and St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestras, the Boston, Dallas, Cincinnati, Sydney, and City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestras, and the NHK Symphony in Japan, collaborating with such eminent conductors as Marin Alsop, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sir Andrew Davis, Fabio Luisi, Sir Simon Rattle, Yuri Temirkanov, and Jaap van Zweden.

The Cliburn's newest concert series, launching September 14, 2024, features magical, musical experiences for the whole family at the Fort Worth Zoo, the Fort Worth Stockyards Station, and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History’s Omni Theater.

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.

Get a taste of the artistry and excitement of the upcoming 2025 Cliburn Competition! Bring your friends and family for a free concert at Dallas Asian American Youth Orchestra featuring 2013 finalist Fei-Fei in this year's Countdown to the Cliburn series.

Celebrate the upcoming season of Cliburn 180ºs Young Professionals Group with pianist Peter Dugan and violinist Charles Yang

Vote for your favorite competitor! The pianist with the most votes will receive the Carla and Kelly Thompson Audience Award and a cash prize of $2,500, presented at the Awards Ceremony on June 7, 2025.

From world-class Competitions and traditional recitals by classical music's biggest stars to intimate, casual concerts and fun, interactive performances for the whole family, the Cliburn welcomes everyone from the seasoned connoisseur to the newcomer to enjoy great music. Learn more about our different events below and join us for unforgettable musical moments.