The Washington International Competition (WIC), established in 1950, is held for singers, pianists, string players, and composers. WIC competitions for singers, pianists, and string players are held each spring in annual rotation. The WIC composers’ competition, established in 1976, is held every 3 years for the composition of a string quartet, piano quartet, piano quintet, piano trio, or string trio. Through the authority of its judges, high musical standards, and the quality of young artists attracted, the WIC offers—both in the United States and abroad—a significant opportunity for young artists to step upward from the ranks of talented students to recognition as professionals. Prize-winners of these competitions have gone on to win other important contests and achieve distinction on concert and opera stages around the world.

Winners receive substantial cash awards and the opportunity to perform in recital or as soloist with orchestras in prestigious Washington venues. The winner of the WIC piano competition is invited to perform a solo recital in the Terrace Theater of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC (Alice Nagle Fund) and a concerto performance with the FMMC Avanti Orchestra during the following season.