The first, in 1958, included two categories – piano and violin. Beginning with the second competition, in 1962, a cello category was added, and the vocal division was introduced during the third competition in 1966. In 1990, a fifth category was announced for the IX International Tchaikovsky Competition – a contest for violin makers which was held before the main competition.

In 2011, the Competition was first held in two cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. The 15^th, jubilee competition was timed to the 175^th anniversary of the birth of the great Russian composer.

In 2018, the International Tchaikovsky Competition reached its 60th anniversary. Throughout its history, the Competition has given international fame to outstanding representatives of the performing arts of the modern era.

An artistic competition is a traditional starting point for gifted young musicians as it gives them a chance to encounter the admiration of an audience, be initiated into the worldwide professional community, and start a brilliant international career.

In Russia the Competition is considered a landmark of national musical culture. Each of its editions is one of the key events in the social and cultural life of the country.