The Primrose International Viola Competition has established itself as one of the premiere instrumental competitions. The competition received a record number of entries in 2008 - up thirty percent from 2005. Competitors represented the countries of Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Mexico, New Zealand, Romania, Taiwan, Turkey, and the United States.

The Primrose Competition's immediate goal is to recognize and showcase young musicians who have achieved world class excellence through intensive hard work and unusual talent. Founded in 1979 as the first international competition solely for violists, William Primrose served as chair of the jury for its inaugural year. The American Viola Society (AVS), through an endowment established by memorial contributions made by friends, collegues, artists, and admirers of the great virtuoso, has sponsored the competition since 1986. Each person who participates in the competition dedicated to his memory partakes of his great musical contribution and inspiring legacy.

Over the last three decades The Primrose Competition has established an impeccable track record for identifying the talent of tomorrow and is respected for its integrity. Past-winners are currently engaged in the highest levels of professional artistic careers.

The competition invites participants to perform in three rounds: preliminary, recital (including a new chamber music component), and concerto. All rounds are open to the public. The competition is juried by a panel of well-known national and international artists. The recital round features a world premiere by American composer Peter Askim.

The Primrose Competition also serves to highlight non-competitive aspects. During the week opportunities are made available to all participants: the chance to perform before audiences; to measure one's musical progress against the standards of a distinguished jury and the artistry of other talented players; and to enjoy career seminars during the competition.

The competition is eligible to anyone who has not reached their 30th birthday by June 6, 2011.

Prizes are as follows:

First prize: $5,000 USD

Second prize: $3,000 USD

Third prize: $1,000

Additional Prizes include:

Liben Music prize: awarded for Best Performance of the Commissioned Work

Linnet Press prize: awarded for Best Performance of Bach