Founded in 1958, the Canadian Music Competitions is a national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting young Canadian classical music students. Through competitions, CMC provides opportunities for them to measure themselves against the most demanding standards and gives financial assistance through scholarships. It also offers a wide range of performance opportunities including international exposure. Competitions are held in cities across Canada for candidates between the ages of 7 and 29 in more than nine instrument categories or voice.
A mark of at least 80% in the First round enables candidates to play in the Provincial round and a minimum mark of 85% allows them to perform in the National finals. Every two years, the International Stepping Stone (ISS) competitions are held for older, advanced students preparing professional careers in music.