[2] Hans Gabor [de] (founder of the Wiener Kammeroper) created the contest in 1982 to promote the careers of emerging opera artists.
The competition is judged by a panel of opera managers, agents, and media representatives.
Competitors from around the world participate, with the qualifying round of competition taking place in 50 cities.
[3] A number of different prizes are awarded, including cash and opera engagements.
[2] The competition was the subject of a 2012 documentary film, Wall Street of Voices.