A Surprise In Texas - The Thirteenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition

"The atmosphere of the piano world's most demanding competition comes vividly across, as do the personalities of the finalists"
(BBC Music)

In May 2009, twenty-nine of the world's best young pianists converged in Fort Worth, Texas for a once in a lifetime chance at gold in the thirteenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Emmy-winning director Peter Rosen follows these distinctive personalities during a rigorous three-week competition through intense rehearsals, introspective moments, pre-concert rituals, and endearing celebrations.

With the performances of Chopin, Liszt, Beethoven, and Rachmaninoff and other piano masterpieces setting the impassioned tone, the result is an intricate inside view into the inner workings of the world's most prestigious piano competition and a heartwarming story that proves to be a momentous surprise in Texas.