Piano concerts + golf = a busy Fort Worth

If having actor Bill Murray come to Fort Worth sounds impressive, think about why he and so many other guests are here this week.

One of the greatest traditions in professional golf is unfolding at Colonial Country Club, and raising charity money that will push all-time gifts past $100 million.

The Dean & DeLuca Invitational charity golf tournament is the one moment every year that showcases Fort Worth to the world on national television. This year’s telecast has the extra star appeal of new CBS Sports announcer Tony Romo Saturday and Sunday.

Fort Worth hotels will bank more than $500,000. The publicity alone is valued at more than $2 million.

More than ever, golf is an international game. Competitors are here from 17 nations.

Also in Fort Worth this weekend: competitors from 16 nations here for the 15th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

While the golf world is watching CBS, the music world will be following streaming video at cliburn.org or medici.tv of one of classical music’s most dramatic events, a 17-day piano playoff for 30 passionate, flashy and emotional young contestants.

The Cliburn doesn’t draw 250,000 people. But it does sell $1.5 million in tickets for sessions that fill not only Bass Hall but also downtown cafes.

The best golfers and pianists come because Fort Worth is world famous for our hospitality.

We owe them all cheers.

This story was originally published May 25, 2017 at 5:49 PM with the headline "Piano concerts + golf = a busy Fort Worth."