Classical pianist Van Cliburn died February 27 at age 78 (born July 12, 1934). The legendary performer was only twenty-three years old when he captured the world's attention by winning the Tchaikovsky International Competition in Moscow. In addition to performing decades of concerts and recording numerous albums, he fostered the careers of young artists by creating several scholarship programs and establishing the annual Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in Fort Worth, Texas.