Volunteer Spotlight

JOIN US IN SALUTING TWO OF THE MORE THAN 600 ACTIVE VOLUNTEERS WHO GIVE OF THEIR TIME, RESOURCES, AND EXPERTISE TO FORM THE BACKBONE OF THE CLIBURN.

JACQUELINE COPELAND

volunteer cliburn calligrapher since 2017

“Since I was a little girl, I have loved not only playing the piano but also listening to its beautiful music. Growing up in Fort Worth, I knew about the Cliburn Competition and the very talented man himself, but had never attended a concert. When I joined The Junior League of Fort Worth, I finally had a chance to be a part of the Cliburn through volunteering! Starting in 2017, I had the opportunity to join something I love with something I admire and jumped at the chance!

Being the awards calligrapher for the Cliburn the past five years is an honor and a role I continuously look forward to. Having the privilege to solidify the achievements of these world-class pianists with live-calligraphy has been a high point of my career. I always look forward to the buzz and excitement that encircles the final day of competition, in addition to being behind the scenes in the Green Room, eagerly awaiting the jury-selected winners and celebrating them privately while the ink dries before the world congratulates them on a magnificent honor.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED AT CLIBURN.ORG/ VOLUNTEER

KRISTY ODOM

volunteer cliburn competition facilities chairman (and more!) since 2009

“Back in 2009, I said yes to a volunteer opportunity like none other. It was something I had no experience with, but I was excited to be behind the scenes, learning something new and being a part of something so special. There was simply a listing for one individual needed to help with ‘Front of House/Back of House’ (I had no idea what that was, and apparently it hadn’t attracted the attention that other more glamorous volunteer roles had garnered… ‘I’ll do it!’). The Cliburn has been a lovely adventure ever since. As Core Chairman over facilities, I procure/rent items needed by the staff to execute a successful competition; everything from table cloths and chairs to podiums and sofas.

I have been blessed to serve our community in many capacities over the years, but there is something so special about volunteering for the Cliburn. They empower you, value your time and talent, and are whole-heartedly grateful for your presence and support. My roles have diversified to include various roles within each competition, ranging from competitor lounge chair for the Junior, host family liaison, and even host to the conductor. If the opportunity comes your way, say ‘yes!’ You won’t regret it or the new found family you’ll have in the Cliburn.”