Competitions provide a means of promoting talented musicians in an environment which is at once edifying, stimulating and challenging for both competitors and audiences alike. The electric combination of exceptional talent, serious and inspirational music, a Jury of eminent musicians and a proactive and educated audience provide a forum which is unique in its potential both to provide real benefit to young artists and to encourage the exchange of progressive ideas and innovation in the increasingly challenging and demanding world of classical music.

Goodenough College, home of the Britten Competition, is no stranger to the competitive spirit intrinsic to these

events. Aware of its role as a promoter of outstanding intellectual achievement, the College, like Britten, encourages excellence through shared endeavour, not only in music, but in a wide variety of academic, artistic, sporting and social activities.

Competition however is not the ultimate goal of this event. Naturally winners will and must emerge, such is the reality of the often fierce and unforgiving world of competition. But the focus of the event is and must always remain the tangible and real benefits of participation in the Competition to all our Competitors. And it is for this reason that I extend a special message of warm welcome to all those young artists who apply for selection in the Competition, where their life efforts and dedicated perseverance will be recognised, respected and nurtured. They will I hope leave the Competition with an enduring sense of having taken part in a rich and rewarding event.

I am aware that, like any bold new venture, this one involves great challenges. The Competition is receiving support from many quarters: its world famous Patrons, distinguished Advisory Board, its internationally renowned Artistic Committee, international investors, domestic corporations and the music industry. I am confident that the Competition will - from its first edition onwards - take its place amongst the best in the international calendar.

I look forward to the pleasure of welcoming you to Goodenough College and to the Competition itself in July 2004.

Tim Toyne Sewell
Chairman of the Competition