The competition, named after the 19th century Russian composer whose music is loved throughout the world for its harmony, stirring melodies and distinctly Russian and yet international character, is one of the world's most prestigious contests.
The 13th International Tchaikovsky Competition will take place June 12-30 in 2007. Held once every four years since 1958, it was originally organized for pianists and violinists, but later included cellists and vocalists.
Press center head Sergei Shatunov said the Web site, www.XIIITC.ru, launched ahead of the competition, also contained information on contestants, members of the jury - usually notable soloists, music professors and prior competition winners - and a schedule of events. It also offers tickets for the three elimination rounds.
"There is also a section devoted to the history of the competition," Shatunov said. "And there is a feedback link and a guestbook for questions. We are trying to answer them online."
Russia's Culture and Mass Communications Minister, Alexander Sokolov, who called the contest a "treasured tradition," said contestants would perform in different venues depending on the nomination category. Pianists and cellists will perform in the Conservatory, violinists in the Music House, and vocalists in the Tchaikovsky concert hall.
In 2002, the contest's most recent year, 627 musicians applied from 54 countries, 272 of whom were accepted -- 65 pianists, 52 violinists, 63 cellists and 92 vocalists.
