Juan M. Rodriguez of Chicago, Illinois

“Several years ago Mr. Cliburn made an appearance at a Downtown Chicago record store  and I had the great honor and privilege of meeting him and shaking his hand. When notice of the appearance was given mention was also made that Mr. Cliburn would autograph 3 items.  I arrived there very early with 18 CDs all containing music recorded by Mr. Cliburn and the book written about him by John VonRhein  just to show Mr. Cliburn that a more loyal fan he did not have.  Mr. Cliburn very graciously offered and proceeded to autograph all of my CDs and the book  I also went to Ravinia a couple of summers ago to see him perform (for the fist time) the Grieg concerto.  Ever since 1958  I have greatly admired Mr. Cliburn and I consider him my favorite pianist. I especially remember him every July 12.”

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