Since their establishment, international music competitions world-wide aim at the discovery of new talents amd their introduction to the public through this very event.

Despite the efforts of the organizers all these years, however, it has been proved that an internationally accepted first prize at a competition is by no means a garantee for the beginning of a successful career and its further development.

The "Maria Callas" Grand Prix in Opera, Oratorio-Lied and Piano from the very beginning traced this weakness based on the fact that there are different criteria and requirements between discovering a talent and discovering a talent ready to meet successfully with the high standards of an international professional career. Standards such as dynamic personality, communications skills, stage presence, a wide range repertoire and the necessary ability to cope decisively with the various stage difficulties, surely lead to a professional recognition.

With a view to introducing to the public outstanding young artists and eventually opening new horizons to a perhaps already existing career, Athenaeum decided to require a highly demanding programme.

The "Maria Callas" Grand Prix has been established to be awarded to such outstanding artists and this would be the fulfillment of the goal of the Athenaeum.