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The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition

Program Number: 17212RJ
Start and End Dates:
6/5/2013 - 6/10/2013;
Duration: 5 nights
Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Price starting at: $1,375.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Music Appreciation; Music Festivals
Meals: 13; 5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 5 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian; Low Salt    

Choose between attending the semifinal or final round of the prestigious Van Cliburn competition, named for the young American who won the first ever International Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in Moscow at the height of the Cold War. Meet Van Cliburn Foundation staff, learn about the competition repertoire with a professor of music, go behind the scenes at Fort Worth’s crown jewel, Bass Performance Hall. Feel the passionate excitement!




Highlights

• A music professor shares fascinating perspectives on the challenges for these young artists — who you choose to see perform in the semifinals or the final round.
• Meet a past competitor from the Van Cliburn Foundation’s Amateur Competition and hear about doors opened as a result of that success.
• Explore beautiful Bass Performance Hall and attend concerts featuring semifinalists with the world-renowned Brentano String Quartet or finalists with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Leonard Slatkin.



Register to attend both semifinal and final rounds using Program #18111, “The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in Fort Worth,” and save $200.




Date Specific Information

6-5-2013

This program date presents the final-round competition. Hear the six finalists as they each perform a solo recital and two concert with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, led by internationally renowned conductor Leonard Slatkin. You will also attend symposia about conducting and judging criteria and be present at the awards ceremony when this year’s winner is named.



Coordinated by University of Texas at Austin.




Fort Worth

Originally a military camp built in 1849, Fort Worth became a stop for cattle drivers along the famous Chisholm Trail. Branded with the moniker “Cowtown” and the motto “Where the West Begins,” Fort Worth has grown beyond its dusty cowboy roots to now boast a vibrant arts scene and world-famous country-western music venues.
Accommodations
Recently renovated all-suite hotel across the street from the performance hall.
Meals and Lodgings
   Embassy Suites
  Fort Worth, Texas 5 nights
 Embassy Suites
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Only 4 Blocks from the Fort Worth Convention Center Complimentary High-Speed Internet Access in every room Conveniently Located Across from Bass Hall Modern Fitness Center Indoor Heated Pool and Spa Manager's Reception with Complimentary Beverages and Appetizers
  Contact info: 600 Commerce
Fort Worth, TX 76102 USA
phone: 817-332-6900
web: embassysuites1.hilton.com
  Room amenities: Each hotel suite has two televisions, high-speed Internet access, two telephones with voice mail and a modem. Each suite has desk, refrigerator, microwave oven and coffee maker. complimentary high- speed Internet access is available throughout the hotel. Parking is available at $14.00 per day.
  Facility amenities: Automated Teller (ATM) Baggage Storage, Beverage Area, Complimentary Breakfast Area, Coin Laundry, Concierge Desk, Elevators, Gift Shop, Lounge, Luggage Hold, Multi-Lingual Staff, Room Service, Safety Deposit Box, Audio/Visual Equipment Rental, Business Center, Fax, Meeting Rooms, Notary Public, Photo Copying Service, Printer, Secretarial Service
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Best seasonal price available. Call hotel at 817-332-6900 to make reservations.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Best seasonal price available. Call hotel at 817-332-6900 to make reservations.
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
4:00PM. You will be staying at Embassy Suites that night.
  End of Program:
11:00AM. You will be staying at Embassy Suites the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. The Health and Safety questionnaire & Release and Indemnification Agreement must be completed and returned to the Program Provider at least six weeks prior to the program.
  Parking availability:
Hotel parking is available for $14.00 per day. Upon arrival, participants must use valet parking or find available metered space on the street. Self-parking is not available.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Fort Worth, Texas
  Nearest city or town:  Fort Worth, Texas
  Nearest highway: I-30
  Nearest airport:  DFW
  From End of Program
  Location: Fort Worth, Texas
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Dallas Love Field Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Super Shuttle
phone: 800-258-3826
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$36.00 per passenger
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic 
 

Distance:

 

34 miles
   

Call Super Shuttle to arrange pick-up at terminal. We suggest you arrange to arrive and depart from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
 

Dallas Love Field

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Train
Dallas Area Rapid Transit/TRE
phone: 214-979-1111

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$7.00 for DART bus ticket and two train transfers (DART and TRE)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

1 to 1 1/2 hours 
 

Distance:

 

34 miles- We suggest you try to use Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW).
   

From terminal at Love Field, take the #39 bus to downtown Dallas and exit at Inwood/Love Field DART train station. Take the Green line DART train toward downtown to the Victory Station. At Victory Station, buy a ticket on the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) to downtown Ft. Worth. Ride the TRE train to Ft. Worth and exit at the Intermodal Transit Center (ITC) in downtown Ft. Worth. Walk or take the free trolley 6 blocks to hotel at the corner of 6th and Commerce Streets.
 

DFW Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Train
Trinity Railway Express
phone: 817-215-8600

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

free shuttle bus to train station; TRE train ticket $3.50 per person
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes to 1 hour 
 

Distance:

 

25 miles
   

Airline travelers arriving at DFW Airport board Remote South buses at designated stops in the terminal. At Remote South parking lot, passengers connect to buses serving the CentrePort/DFW Airport Station. Buses to Remote South & CentrePort/DFW Airport Station depart every 15 minutes. At train station, buy at TRE west fare zone ticket and travel west by train to Fort Worth to the Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) in downtown Fort Worth. Walk or take free trolley to 6th and Commerce Streets.
 

Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Super Shuttle
phone: 800-258-3826
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$17.00 per guest one-way
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30-45 minutes depending on traffic 
 

Distance:

 

25 miles
   

Call Super Shuttle for pick up at terminal.
 

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
817-267-5150

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$30 per person
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30-45 minutes depending on traffic 
 

Distance:

 

25 miles
   

$54 for 2 persons. For groups of 3-10, $85.
 
Driving Directions
  The East (Dallas) Take I-30 West toward Fort Worth (29.5 miles). Take exit 15C/Denton (I-35W north)/Downtown onto US-287 (go .87 miles). Continue on to TX-280 SPUR W toward Downtown. Exit 6th Street, continue to Main Street, take a right on Main Street. Go 1 block to 5th Street, right on 5th. Continue to Commerce. Hotel is on the right corner of 5th and Commerce.
  The North (Denton) Take I-35W South towards downtown Fort Worth. Take exit #52A/Downtown onto TX-280 SPUR W. Exit 6th Street continue to Main Street. Turn right on Main Street. Go 1 block to 5th Street, turn right on 5th. Continue to Commerce. Hotel is on the right corner of 5th and Commerce.
  The South (Waco) Take I-35W North towards Fort Worth, Take exit #52A/Downtown onto TX-280 SPUR W. Take 6th Street continue to Main Street. Take right on Main Street. Go 1 block to 5th Street, right on 5th Street. Continue to Commerce. Hotel is on right corner of 5th and Commerce.
  The West Take I-30 toward Downtown Fort Worth. Take exit #15A/Denton onto I-35W north. Take exit 52A/Downtown onto TX-280 SPUR W. Exit 6th Street, continue to Main Street, take a right on Main Street. Go 1 block to 5th Street, right on 5th Street. Continue to Commerce. Hotel on right corner of 5th and Commerce.
Elevation Note: Fort Worth's elevation is 670 feet.

Equipment Requirements: Equipment is not required for program participation.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrival & Check-in, Registration & Orientation, Welcome & Introductions, "A Surprise in Texas" Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Documentary
(Wednesday, June 5)
   
 Afternoon: HOTEL CHECK-IN: Available from 3:00pm.

REGISTRATION & ORIENTATION: 4:00pm. in hotel conference room on the 5th floor. Pick up your Road Scholar arrival packet containing your name tag, up-to-date schedule, list of participants, maps, and other important information we will review.

The on-site coordinator will greet you with a warm Texas welcome, introduce everyone, and provide key staff contact names and phone numbers. We will review the up-to-date daily schedule, discuss responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. If you arrive late, pick up your packet at the hotel front desk.

This program date focuses on the final round of the Van Cliburn Piano Competition. You will hear each of the six finalists perform a solo recital and two concerti with the Ft. Worth Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Leonard Slatkin. You'll be on hand at the awards ceremony to find out which of the talented young competitors win the coveted prizes.

Please be aware that program activities and scheduled times could change due to weather and other local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible.

 Dinner: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant; vegetarian and low-salt meals available. As we walk to and from the restaurant, you will become acquainted with the Sundance Square area and see the positive effects of recent downtown revitalization efforts.
 Evening: EVENING PROGRAM: Peter Rosen’s enthralling documentary film “A Surprise in Texas” takes you backstage at the 13th annual Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2009. Follow the grueling three-week competition schedule for insights into the lives of the 29 young contestants from 14 countries who came to Forth Worth to compete for one of the most prestigious prizes in the music world. Experience “Nobu fever” — after Nobuyuki Tsujii, the blind pianist who became an inspiration to all people who face hurdles or obstacles in life. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the time contestants had in North Texas as they eat barbecue, model cowboy hats, and soak up the homey vibe of “Cowtown” in the company of their local hosts.
   
Accommodations: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: The Competition, the Pianists and the Media, Expert Presentations, Revitalization of Downtown Ft. Worth, Final Round Competition Performance
(Thursday, June 6)

Note: Media symposium at the Cliburn Recital Hall from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Final Round Competition Performance at the Bass Performance Hall from 7:30- 10:30 p.m.
   
 Breakfast: In the 7th floor atrium, enjoy a full breakfast offering eggs cooked to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, granola, cereals, fresh fruit, a wide assortment of pastries, juices, and other beverages.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Every four years Fort Worth transforms to host thousands of competition attendees, competitors, and official guests and millions of online viewers who tune in from around the world. Individuals from all walks of life gather to share in the thrill, the drama, and the excitement of launching talented young artists' careers. With the competition taking center stage across international media, the streets of downtown Fort Worth can be seen flooded with camera crews and paparazzi swarming the streets.

You'll hear entertaining stories about cross-cultural experiences from members of the domestic and international press corps at the media symposium sponsored by the Cliburn foundation. Consider the perspectives of competitors from other parts of the world as they compete in Fort Worth while living in the private homes of volunteers. Discover how their stories are covered by media outlets around the world.

 Lunch: We will walk to lunch at a nearby restaurant in the Sundance Square area; vegetarian and low-salt options available.
 Afternoon: PRESENTATION: Begin the afternoon with a lecture/discussion with a university professor about this year's Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, piano performance, and repertoire. The music professor will also attend competition sessions with you to discuss the works heard, the competitors, composers, and different styles and types of piano performance.

After a short break, a representative from Sundance Square will share the colorful history of "Hell's Half Acre". This area grew to sprawl across four of the city's main north-south thoroughfares. Explore how the Bass family's redevelopment efforts have revitalized the downtown area.

 Dinner: We will walk to dinner in the Sundance Square area; vegetarian and low-salt meals will be available. Enjoy a variety of types of food during your stay in downtown Fort Worth.
 Evening: VAN CLIBURN COMPETITION FINALS: Watch and listen as the finalists play in the Bass Performance Hall. The Final Round is in two phases. During Phase I, each finalist performs a chamber concerto by Beethoven or Mozart, chosen by the pianist. In Phase II, each young contestant performs a concerto scored for full orchestra, accompanied by the Ft. Worth Symphony Orchestra. Marvel at the imaginative work of conductor Leonard Slatkin, winner of the National Medal of Arts, the nation's highest honor for a performing artist.
   
Accommodations: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Leonard Slatkin Presentation, Expert Lecture, Van Cliburn Amateur Competition 2011 Finalist, Final Round Performance
(Friday, June 7)

Note: Conductor Symposium at Cliburn Recital Hall from 10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m., Final Round competition performance at Bass Performance Hall from 7:30- 10:30 p.m.
   
 Breakfast: In the 7th floor atrium, enjoy a full breakfast offering eggs cooked to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, granola, cereals, fresh fruit, a wide assortment of pastries, juices, and other beverages.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Internationally acclaimed conductor Leonard Slatkin discusses this year's competition and shares insights gathered from years of experience conducting major orchestras in the US and around the world. Get a true insider's view from a man who has been widely recognized for his brilliance both as a conductor and an educator. Gain a new perspective on the competition from one of the country's distinguished musicians.
 Lunch: We will walk to lunch at a nearby restaurant in the Sundance Square area; vegetarian and low-salt options available. A city-operated trolley system is available for those who prefer not to walk.
 Afternoon: PRESENTATION: Van Cliburn's sensational victory at the first Tchaikovsky International Competition in Moscow in 1958 heralded a new era American music-making as well as cultural relations between East and West. Celebrating this remarkable achievement, a group of music teachers and citizens from Fort Worth created the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, a joyous festival dedicated to the discovery of the world's finest young pianists. The Van Cliburn Foundation also sponsors a quadrennial Amateur Competition open to pianists age 35 and older who do not derive their principal source of income through piano performance or instruction. These talented musicians also compete in three elimination rounds, have opportunities to explore chamber music works with professional musicians, and participate in symposia and other events. You will meet one of the finalists from the 2011 Amateur Competition, who will share stories and insights into the experience.

Following a short break, we will have a lecture/discussion with university professor on works performed during the competition and offer insights into the demands of competition performance on the young pianists.

 Dinner: Dinner in the Sundance Square area. Enjoy a variety of types of food during your stay in downtown Fort Worth. Vegetarian and low-salt meals will be available.
 Evening: VAN CLIBURN COMPETITION FINALS: Attend another Final Round performance at Bass Performance Hall. By now, you will have become familiar with these extraordinary young talents and may be rooting for your favorite.
   
Accommodations: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Scoring & Judging Criteria, More About the Van Cliburn Foundation, Expert Presentation, Final Round Performance
(Saturday, June 8)

Note: Jury Symposium at Cliburn Recital Hall from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Final Round Performance at Bass Performance Hall from 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.



   
 Breakfast: In the 7th floor atrium, savor a full breakfast offering eggs cooked to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, granola, cereals, fresh fruit, a wide assortment of pastries, juices, and other beverages.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Unravel the mysteries behind the process used to assess the extraordinarily talented competitors. You will sit in on a discussion of judging criteria featuring current and former members of the jury panel to discover how contestants are evaluated and scores assigned. Step inside the world of the judges as they explain the process of assessing the outstanding performances and making the difficult decisions about who will advance and win.

Over the past four decades, the Cliburn Competition has involved hundreds of great musicians, music professionals, and dedicated individuals in its various activities. Maestro John Giordano will serve as chairman of the jury for the eleventh competition since he assumed the post in 1973.

 Lunch: We will walk to lunch in the Sundance Square area; vegetarian and low-salt meals will be available.
 Afternoon: PRESENTATION: The Van Cliburn Foundation advances awareness of 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. The Foundation conducts the quadrennial Van Cliburn International Piano Competition; provides three years of career management for competition finalists; organizes the International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs™; produces an annual concert series; and offers music education and outreach programs in cooperation with North Texas schools. Explore the foundation's programs with a staff member, who will share how Mr. Cliburn's vision to expand appreciation for classical music is accomplished through education and outreach efforts.

After a short break, you will compare notes with the piano professor about the competition. See if others in the group are rooting for your favorite contestant!

 Dinner: We will walk to dinner in the Sundance Square area; vegetarian and low-salt meals will be available. Sundance Square is at the heart of Fort Worth's vibrant downtown cultural district.
 Evening: VAN CLIBURN COMPETITION FINALS: Attend another Final Round performance at Bass Performance Hall. Feel the tension mount as contestants near the end of the grueling three-week competition and move closer to the recognition and prizes that come with victory!
   
Accommodations: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Culmination of Competition/Final Round Performance/Award Ceremony
(Sunday, June 9)

Note: Final Round performance at the Bass Performance Hall from 3:00- 6:00 p.m. Awards Ceremony follows from 7:00- 8:00 p.m.
   
 Breakfast: In the 7th floor atrium, enjoy a full breakfast offering eggs cooked to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, granola, cereals, fresh fruit, a wide assortment of pastries, juices, and other beverages.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Meet with the piano professor who has accompanied you to the competition to discuss nuances in the performances and differences between competitors. Compare each contestant's individual talent and ability to collaborate with other musicians. You will have a new appreciation of Van Cliburn's legacy and how classical music can reach across borders at the conclusion of one of the most significant music competitions in the world.
 Lunch: Lunch is on your own today. Choose from one of many nearby eateries and explore the downtown area.
 Afternoon: VAN CLIBURN COMPETITION FINALS: Immerse yourself in the last performance of the competition, a joyous festival dedicated to the discovery of the world's finest young pianists. The final determinations about which contestants will win cash prizes and three years of career management and artistic services will take place at the conclusion of the afternoon's performances.
 Dinner: Dinner in the Sundance Square; vegetarian and low-salt meals will be available. As you have learned, Sundance Square is rich in Western history and lore. It is named for the Sundance Kid who, with Butch Cassidy, was a frequent visitor to the area then known as Hell's Half Acre.
 Evening: VAN CLIBURN COMPETITION AWARDS CEREMONY: Your ticket to the final round includes the awards ceremony in which the winners of this year's competition are announced. Share in the excitement, the tears of joy (or disappointment) and find out if your favorite young contestant wins when the results of the 14th International Piano Competition are revealed!
 Evening: You are invited, at your expense, to attend the Cliburn Foundation celebration of another exciting competition. Join those involved in putting on this extraordinary event for a cocktail reception at a nearby hotel. You will receive information about how to contact the Foundation and purchase tickets to join the celebration.
   
Accommodations: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Bass Performance Hall Private Tour
(Monday, June 10)

Note: Behind the Scenes tour of the Bass Performance Hall, home of the Van Cliburn Competition beginning at 9:00 a.m.
   
 Breakfast: In the 7th floor atrium, enjoy a full breakfast offering eggs cooked to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, oatmeal, granola, cereals, fresh fruit, a wide assortment of pastries, juices, and other beverages.
 Morning: The Nancy Lee and Perry R. Bass Performance Hall complex is the crown jewel of a city which boasts the nation's third largest cultural district. It is also an important symbol of one of the most successful downtown revitalization efforts in the country.

Built entirely with private funds, Bass Performance Hall is permanent home to the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Texas Ballet Theater, Fort Worth Opera, and the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and Cliburn Concerts. The 2,056-seat multipurpose Hall is characteristic of the classic European opera house form. An 80-foot diameter Great Dome tops the Founders Concert Theater and two 48-foot tall limestone angels grace the Grand Facade. Since the Hall opened in May 1998, the angels have become pre-eminent cultural icons of the entire Dallas / Fort Worth metropolitan area. The Hall itself is renowned for its superb acoustics, exceptional sight lines and ambiance on level with the great halls of the world.

Program concludes no later than 11:00AM.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Fort Worth, Texas American Airlines C. R. Smith
This is an "airline" museum, not an "aircraft" museum; dedicated to C.R. Smith, the "father of American Airlines." Through interactive displays, films, videos, and hands-on exhibits, visitors see the operations of an airline - today and in the past. More than 80 small airlines merged to become American Airways in 1930; that name changed to American Airlines in 1934. A vintage Douglas DC-3, Flagship Knoxville, meticulously restored by retired AA pilots, mechanics and employees, was flown to Fort Worth and hoisted into its place of prominence. Open Tues. Sat. 10 am. - 6 pm. adjacent to American Airlines Flight Academy at Texas 360 and FAA Rd. southwest of D/FW Airport. 817/967-1560. www.crsmithmuseum.org
  Bureau of Engraving and Printing
45-minute guided tour of the facility features displays and exhibits showing history of U.S. paper currency, the production process and its technology, a 15-minute film of the production process, a quarter-mile elevated walkway tour overlooking the currency production floor, the MoneyFactory gift shop, and three live demonstration exhibits; a turn-of-the-century spider press, a mutilated currency redemption desk, and an engraver's bench. Open Aug. - May, Mon. - Fri 8:30am-3:30pm, and tours are conducted every 30 minutes; visitors should be check in by 2pm to attend the final tour of the day. Open June - Jul., Mon - Fri 10:30am-6:30pm and tours are conducted every 30 minutes; visitors should be checked in by 5pm to attend the final tour of the day. Closed weekends, federal holidays, and the week between Christmas and New Year's Day. 866/865-1194 or 817/231-4000. www.moneyfactory.gov
  Fire Station No. 1
"150 Years of Fort Worth" traces city's colorful history. Second and Commerce sts. downtown. No admission fee.
  Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Traveling and permanent exhibits, 100,000 artifacts and specimens, the Omni Theater showing IMAX® films, and the Noble Planetarium offer an extraordinary learning environment with plenty of hands-on fun. Construction slated to begin in 2007 on new facility, so call ahead for availability. Wheelchair accessible. In the Cultural District. Admission fee. Hours Open: Mon-Thur 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Address: 1501 Montgomery St. Zip Code: 76107 Telephone #: 817/255-9300 www.fortworthmuseum.org
  Fort Worth Zoo
Mammals, birds, and reptiles from around the world. Zoo selected one of the top five zoos in America. Featured exhibits include: African Savannah at edge of a forest with groups of endangered black and white rhinos, giraffes, and African birds in a natural setting. Herpetarium acclaimed for naturalistic exhibits and collection of frogs, turtles, crocodiles, and hundreds of snakes. Asian Falls, carved out of existing hillside, is a natural setting of grassy hills, waterfalls, and trees, where guests stroll along raised boardwalk to view Sumatran tigers, including the zoo's famous white tiger, "Neela." Exhibit also includes bears. World of Primates has representatives of all Great Ape species and includes indoor tropical rain forest housing lowland gorillas, colobus monkeys and free-flying tropical birds. Connecting outdoor exhibit features various primates including chimpanzees, orangutans, gibbons, bonobos (pygmy chimpanzees), and others. Don't miss Texas Wild! This 8 acre exhibit dedicated to the Lone Star State's native flora and fauna houses more than 200 native Texas animals. Admission fee. Hours Open: Open daily 10 a.m. closing time varies throughout the year Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy Zip Code: 76110 Telephone #: 817/759-7555 www.fortworthzoo.com
  Japanese Garden
An enchanting six-acre garden of Oriental design featuring a pagoda, moon-viewing deck, teahouse, and meditation garden amid lush exotic plants. In Cultural District. Admission fee. Hours Open: Nov. - Mar. daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Apr. - Oct. daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Address: 3220 Botanic Garden Dr. Zip Code: 76107 Telephone #: 817/871-7685 www.fwbg.com
  National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
The only museum in the world dedicated to honoring and documenting the distinguished women of the American West, including Georgia O'Keeffe, Dale Evans, Patsy Cline, Sacajawea, Willa Cather and Annie Oakley. Designed by David Schwarz, it includes a permanent exhibit, traveling collections, a multi-purpose theater, an expanded research library, a retail store and the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. Admission fee..Hours Open: Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Fri. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Address: 1720 Gendy St. Zip Code: 76107 Telephone #: 817/336-4475
  Texas Civil War Museum
Opened in 2006, home to the largest Civil War museum west of the Mississippi River, including the commissioned movie, “Our Homes Our Rights- Texas in the Civil War.” See items such as guns, swords, uniforms, flags, personal items, Victorian dresses and accessories. Three galleries include the Civil War collection, Victorian Dress Collection, and UDC Texas Confederate Collection. Admission fee. Hours Open: Tues. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Closed Sun. – Mon. Address: 760 Jim Wright Freeway N. Zip Code: 76131 Telephone #: 817/246-2323 www.texascivilwarmuseum.com
  Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame
Museum honors 65 current inductees-Texas cowboys and cowgirls who have excelled in their careers. The inductee's booth contains photos, memorabilia and videos of championship performances. The museum also features the Sterquell Wagon Collection and the John Justin Trail of Fame. Located at the Horse and Mule Barns on East Exchange Avenue. Address: 128 E. Exchange Zip Code: 76106 Telephone #: 817/626-7131 www.texascowboyhalloffame.com
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Van Cliburn


Author: Howard Reich


Description: Outlining an impressive musical career that spans over four decades, this solidly researched biography allows readers to meet the man behind the music. Lovers of classical music will be intrigued by the behind-the-scenes look at the only complete biography of Van Cliburn, one of the world's most famous and loved classical pianists.



Conducting Business: Unveiling the Mystery Behind the Maestro


Author: Leonard Slatkin


Description: Conducting an orchestra is something that is seen as well as heard, but it is quite misunderstood when it comes to knowing what this person actually does for a living. Covering everything from learning how to read music to standing in front of an orchestra for the first time, what to wear, and how to deal with the press, Slatkin's new book, Conducting Business, is a unique look at a unique profession.



They Came to Play Documentary DVD


Author: Directed by Alex Rotaru


Description: Chronicles the Fifth International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs, hosted by The Van Cliburn Foundation. Players from all over the world, ranging from self-taught to classically-trained, aged thirty-five to almost eighty, convene in Fort Worth, Texas for a week of intense competition, music and camaraderie. The film the film provides an intimate look into the lives of these colorful, multi-faceted competitors as they strive to balance the demands of work and family with their love of music. Years of dedicated preparation culminate in critical performances before a professional jury and discerning audience during three nerve-wracking elimination rounds.



http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=87771963


Author: National Public Radio


Description: National Public Radio coverage of the 50th anniversary of Van Cliburn's victory in Russia.



http://www.composersforum.org/content/christopher-theofanidis


Author: American Composer's Forum


Description: Biography information about featured composer and Yale University professor Christopher Theofanidis. Includes an mp3 version of a recently composed work. Born in Dallas on 12/18/67, Thoefanidis' work has been performed by many leading orchestras from around the world.



http://www.npr.org/artists/15806131/christopher-theofanidis


Author: National Public Radio


Description: Read interview and listen to radio interview excerpt about opera composed by Theofanidis to commemorate 10th anniversary of 9/11 attack, "Heart of a Soldier". Contains links to musical recordings of symphonic compositions by Theofanidis.



PBS Documentary- 50 Years of Gold


Author: Public Broadcasting Corporation


Description: Every four years a group of the finest young pianists take the stage of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in Fort Worth, Texas. As seen through the eyes and memories of the 15 gold medalists, "The Cliburn: 50 Years of Gold" follows the history of one of the world's most prestigious music competitions, set against the backdrop of the world's most beautiful music. The contestants' stories are woven into the legend of Van Cliburn, the Competition's inspiration, who-in his own words-recalls his victory in Moscow at the first Tchaikovsky Competition at the height of the Cold War in 1958.





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