The Adam International Cello Festival and Competition took place in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 1995–2009, on the initiative of Professor Alexander Ivashkin and Professor while on the staff at the School of Music, University of Canterbury. The mission of the competition was to provide an opportunity for gifted young musicians in New Zealand to meet and compete with their international peers. Professor Ivashkin subsequently became the Artistic director of the Festival.:. The acclaimed Russian cellist, pianist, and conductor Mstislav Rostropovich accepted the position of patron. The Festival and Competition were supported by Denis and Verna Adam of the , as well as charitable trusts, business and private sponsors.