About PianoTexas

PianoTexas International Academy & Festival, formerly known as the TCU/Cliburn Piano Institute, was founded in 1981 during the Sixth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Throughout the years, this event has evolved into an International Music Festival, renowned for its world-class solo, concerto and chamber music concerts. The International Academy has served as an important and beneficial avenue imparting musical insights and understanding of the professional music world to talented young pianists, while presenting special programs for dedicated teachers and passionate amateurs.  PianoTexas is presented by the School of Music, TCU in collaboration with the Van Cliburn Foundation and the Fort Worth Symphony Association.

The Young Artists Program is designed for gifted young pianists up to age 27 to experience the art of performing in a professional, competitive environment. Applicants from all over the world go through a stringent screening procedure and many who are invited receive generous financial aid.

Performers receive opportunities in solo concerts, with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, with professional string quartets and participate in master classes and private lessons. Active observers are provided private lessons while the general observers together with other participants and the community are invited to all presentations creating a wonderful festive atmosphere.

The Teachers Program pioneers the creation of stimulating outlets for teachers to perform. Since 1991, the Festival has developed the idea of this unique “hands on” experience for teachers by providing opportunities to perform in recitals, with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, with professional string quartets and participating in master classes and individual lessons. Additionally, each year an eminent pedagogue who is well known and respected in the teaching profession is featured. Abundance of lecture demonstrations and presentations allow teachers to share and to delve into a large variety of music topics such as style, technique, methods and the art of teaching.

Established in 1996, PianoTexas' Amateurs Program is the first of such programs that specifically geared to the special needs of amateur pianists. This program is designed for non-professional pianists, who maintain a passionate love of music while pursuing their livelihoods in other areas. It provides a wonderful venue for them to improve their skills and offers valuable experience in public performance. The truly distinctive aspect of the program is the opportunity to perform with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and professional string quartets. Together with recitals, master classes, and private lessons the program offers artistic and personal development with a view to bring out the highest potential in each participant in a joyous and caring atmosphere.

PianoTexas is truly the place for everyone to come together to celebrate the magic of the piano and its infinite repertoire. It matters not whether one is an active performer or passive listener, the Festival provides something for everyone in a wonderful atmosphere that truly makes Fort Worth “Piano Town, U.S.A.”