The Princess Astrid International Music Competition is held biennially in Trondheim (Norway), with disciplines alternating between violin and conducting. The Trondheim Symfoniorkester & Opera is owner and host of the competition.

Assembling a distinguished jury and highly talented candidates, the Princess Astrid IMC provides showcase opportunities for young classical artists as well as engaging concerts to its audience.

Inaugurated in 1953 Princess Astrid IMC is the longest running music competition in Norway. The aim of the competition is to provide career opportunities for young talented classical artists. Throughout the years many of its laureates have gone on to becoming internationally renowned musicians and soloists.

The competition has since 1956 enjoyed the royal patronage of Her Highness Princess Astrid Mrs Ferner of Norway, and it is also supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Culture.

Former chief conductor of Trondheim Symfoniorkester, Finn Audun Oftedal, founded the competition in order to give young musicians an opportunity to show their talent. Several of the prize winners throughout the years have gone on to becoming internationally renowned musicians and soloists.

Ever since 1956 the Princess Astrid International Music Competition enjoys the royal patronage of Princess Astrid, Mrs Ferner of Norway. The Princess has shown the competition inestimable support, and continues to be its active patron and wonderful ambassador , decade after decade.