The Cliburn announced recently former First Lady Mrs. Laura W. Bush will serve as honorary chairman of the 2019 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition & Festival. The Competition, which will take place May 31 – Jun 8, 2019 in Dallas.
“Mrs. Laura Bush’s lifetime commitment to education at the highest level continues in this association with the Cliburn Junior Competition, which is designed to encourage the artistic development of the greatest pianistic talent of tomorrow from around the globe,” said Cliburn President and CEO Jacques Marquis in an announcement on the organization’s Facebook page. “As the Cliburn hosts a major program in Dallas for the first time ever—the majority of which will be held on the campus of SMU—we are thrilled to have Mrs. Bush, a resident of the city and proud alumna of the University, lend her name. She is also a longtime friend of our inspiration and namesake, Van Cliburn, making this connection particularly special.”
The 2019 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition & Festival is open for pianists age 13 to 17. Applications are open now and will close on Jan 10, 2019. A screening jury will select 24 competitors through online applications and video submissions, which will be 15 to 20 minutes in length and include one etude, one movement of a Classical sonata, and one expressive Romantic work. Competitors will be announced to the public on March 13, 2019.
The first-prize winner will receive a cash award of $15,000; second prize is $10,000; and third prize is $5,000. All three top prizes will also include scholarships, and community residency and mentorship opportunities with the Cliburn.
Tickets to attend the Competition will go on sale in early 2019. The Cliburn will also have travel arrangement options for Fort Worth patrons planning to attend.
Find out more here.
ABOUT THE CLIBURN
It is the mission of the Cliburn to advance classical piano music throughout the world. Its international competitions, education programs, and concert series embody an enduring commitment to artistic excellence and the discovery of young artists. Find out more on the organization’s website.