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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.

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.

Jury for the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

Marin Alsop, jury chair for the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

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

The Houston Symphony is a key partner is the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

The Houston Symphony is a key partner is the 2028 Cliburn International Competition for Conductors

The Cliburn announces the launch of a major new program: the Cliburn International Competition for Conductors, open to 21- to 35-year-old conductors. Taking place in June 2028 in Houston, Texas, in partnership with the Houston Symphony and the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, it will be the first major international conducting competition in North America.

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.

Cliburn in the Community presents two unique concerts for special needs students and their families