At age 23, American classical pianist Van Cliburn achieved worldwide recognition during the Cold War after winning a gold medal in the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958. The Russians absolutely loved his playing.

Astrologer Christine Rakela, the author of "My Private Relationship with Van Cliburn," says that he was not only one of the greatest pianists in history, he was a wonderful person who sought to bring out the spirituality of classical music. The two became dear friends based on mutual trust and good moral values.

Cliburn's mother was his adviser for much of his life. After she died, Christine took on that advisory role when some of her clients, who knew Cliburn personally, recommended her.

Christine describes him as a gentleman who went the extra mile for people and who always did his best for audience members, who included concert-goers around the world, heads of state, royalty, and U.S. Presidents.

He also was a social being who had celebrity friends, including the actress Angie Dickinson.

In this episode, Christine talks about how she used astrology to guide Cliburn in his career and other important areas of his life. She says that astrology is a tool that can help people make the most of their lives.

She also talks about her previous career as a ballet dancer as well as her 22 years as producer and host of "Astrology Connection," which aired on Manhattan Cable.

Christine's final conversation with Cliburn took place on February 15, 2013. Two days later, he had dinner with Dickinson; his attorney; and his assistant. That evening marked the end of what was a busy social time for Cliburn, despite his having a terminal illness. He died on Feb. 27, 2013.

To learn more about Van Cliburn and his legacy, visit The Cliburn website. The Cliburn is another name for the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, first held in 1962 in Fort Worth, Texas, and hosted by the Van Cliburn Foundation. You also can check out Cliburn's biography on Wikipedia.

Christine is a professional astrologer certified by the National Council for Geocosmic Research. You can learn more about her, as well as buy a copy of "My Private Relationship with Van Cliburn," on her website. The book is available on Amazon too. The photo on the book's cover was used courtesy of The Cliburn. You'll see the cover pictured in several of this episode's chapters.

Christine also wrote "Traveling By The Stars" and "The Love Relationship Formula," which you can find on her website.

This is Kate Jones. Thank you for listening to Everyday Creation, available on YouTube and in podcast directories including Apple, Spotify and Audible.