International Tchaikovsky Competition

The first Competition, in 1958, included two specialties – Piano and Violin. Beginning with the second Competition, in 1962, the Cello specialty was added, and the Voice specialty (where separate prizes were provided for the Best Male and Female Vocal Performance) was introduced during the third Competition in 1966. Throughout its history, the Competition has given international fame to outstanding representatives of the performing arts of the modern era. An artistic competition is a traditional starting point for gifted young musicians as it gives them a chance to encounter the admiration of the general public, gain recognition from the global professional community, and start a brilliant international career. In Russia the Competition is considered a landmark of national musical culture. Each of its editions is one of the key events in the social and cultural life of the country.