 
In April 1958 Van Cliburn won the Tchaikovsky Competition, derailing the Soviet’s attempt to demonstrate cultural superiority during the Cold War, on the heels of their technological victory with the Sputnik launch in October 1957.
To celebrate Van Cliburn's win WRR and Lufthansa Airlines are giving you the opportunity to win a pair of tickets to fly to Russia. Just click here to register to win.
“WRR is honored to play such an important role in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Van Cliburn’s historic accomplishment in Moscow,” Greg Davis, WRR General Manager said. “This was not just an individual milestone, but an important moment in America’s history. This young Texan was the first classical performer to receive a ticker tape parade in New York City, he was featured on the cover of Time magazine and some even credited Cliburn for making the first tear in the Iron Curtain.”
WRR will air the world premiere of Van Cliburn: Music and Diplomacy on April 14 at 8 p.m. (CST). This unforgettable two-hour radio program also will be available for international distribution through the WFMT Radio Network in Chicago.
Golabek, who is a Steinway artist, Grammy nominated pianist and an Avery Fisher Prize recipient, will host Van Cliburn: Music and Diplomacy. This program is scheduled to include interviews with U.S. and Russian dignitaries. Other highlights include commentary by Texas-born journalist Bob Schieffer, moderator of the Sunday public affairs show Face the Nation and former CBS Evening News anchor.
This music documentary also will examine Cliburn’s Texas roots including interviews from East Texans, political/Cold War implications of Cliburn’s triumph in Moscow, his recordings and concerts and his legacy including the International Van Cliburn Piano Competition and the Piano Institute at Texas Christian University.
“WRR is working closely with the Van Cliburn Foundation to produce special programming befitting a classical performer and cultural ambassador of Van Cliburn’s stature,” Davis said. “For more than five decades, Cliburn has been enriching lives and fostering a mutual love for classical music. We hope many Cliburn admirers tune in April 14 for an unforgettable tribute to this larger than life Texan.”
This special programming sponsored by:
Berkshire Real Estate//Distinctive Dallas Properties.Com
Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Lufthansa Airlines
Next Century Screens//Phantom Screens
Patton Boggs, LLP
Steinway Hall Fort Worth
University of North Texas Health Science Center
Van Cliburn Foundation |
