Gaylord & Bradley Lummis

Gaylord and Bradley Lummis have been active members of the Cliburn Family for three decades—from serving in major volunteer roles to regularly attending concerts to giving of their resources to support these programs that they love. The Cliburn caught up with them recently, asking Gaylord to tell their Cliburn story.

CLIBURN: What is your history with music?

GAYLORD: Like so many Cliburn fans, I am a frustrated musician. The desire is there, but the talent is lacking—despite the extraordinary efforts of my piano teachers.

CLIBURN: And tell us about your experience and involvement with the Cliburn. How did it all start for you?

GAYLORD: I first got involved with the Cliburn seven competitions (30 years) ago when I was asked to be one of the Big 12—the volunteer committee that organizes everything. I was assistant chair of the Production and Logistics Committee for two competitions, then the Entertainment Committee for four competitions. The last Competition was easy—just co-chair of a subcommittee!

CLIBURN: What makes the Cliburn special—what has been your takeaway from these years of involvement?

GAYLORD: I love the way the Cliburn brings people from all over the world to Fort Worth and the way our city welcomes them with open arms. We hear over and over that no other international piano competition is as friendly and fun as we are.

CLIBURN: What other Cliburn programs do you enjoy, outside of the competitions?

GAYLORD: Bradley and I enjoy the Cliburn Concerts, especially the ones that combine instruments and or voices. Some of the new concert venues are really fun and have introduced us to parts of Fort Worth we did not know.

CLIBURN: Has the Cliburn been a family affair for you?

GAYLORD: We are excited to have passed our enthusiasm for the Cliburn on to our children. All three have been involved one way or another over the years. We’re hoping for the grandchildren to follow right along!