Watch highlights of former editions:
The Princess Astrid International Music Competition was founded in 1953 by Finn Audun Oftedal, then Chief Conductor of the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra. Established with a clear artistic and educational vision, the competition was created to provide young musicians with a professional platform where exceptional talent could be discovered, developed, and brought to the attention of a wider audience.
From its earliest editions, the competition distinguished itself as an important stepping stone for emerging classical artists. Over the decades, numerous prize winners have gone on to build successful international careers as soloists and orchestral musicians, confirming the competition’s lasting relevance and artistic impact.
Since 1956, the competition has enjoyed the royal patronage of Her Highness Princess Astrid, Mrs. Ferner of Norway. Through her long-standing and unwavering commitment, Princess Astrid has given the competition invaluable support, visibility, and prestige. Her role as patron and ambassador has been central to the competition’s identity and continuity, and her engagement has endured decade after decade, reflecting a deep and personal dedication to young musicians and the classical arts. The year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of Princess Astrid’s patronage — a remarkable milestone that underscores her exceptional and enduring contribution to the competition and to Norway’s musical life.
Throughout much of its history, the competition featured a rotating selection of solo instruments, reflecting the broad spectrum of classical performance disciplines. A significant renewal of the competition took place in 2012, when two major changes were implemented. The artistic focus was sharpened by limiting the disciplines to violin and orchestral conducting, alternating between the two. At the same time, the competition expanded its scope from a national to a fully international event, opening its doors to young musicians from around the world and further strengthening its international profile.
In recognition of the competition’s national roots and in honour of its founder, the Finn Audun Oftedal Memorial Scholarship was established. Awarded at each edition to the best Norwegian candidate, the scholarship serves as a tribute to Oftedal’s original vision: to nurture young talent and to ensure that Norwegian musicians continue to be supported and represented within an international framework.
Today, the Princess Astrid International Music Competition stands as the longest-running music competition in Norway, combining a rich historical legacy with a forward-looking commitment to artistic excellence, professional development, and the next generation of classical musicians.
First prize winners of Princess Astrid International Music Competition:
- Sara Dragan, violin, 2024
- Alvin Ho, conducting, 2022
- Yukari Ohno, violin, 2021
- Yuwon Kim, conducting, 2018
- Mayumi Kanagawa, violin, 2016
- Elena Schwartz, conducting, 2014
- Miriam Helms Ålien, violin, 2012