YOUNG musicians and singers are being encouraged to show off their talent and become the best in the Tees Valley.

The Young Musician of the Year 2013 competition is open to all youngsters born after March 31 1993 who live in, or attend a school or college in Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool or Redcar and Cleveland, or who are members of any Tees Valley Music Service Ensemble.

Susan Robertson, manager of the Tees Valley Music Service, said: "There are so many talented youngsters in the area and we want to make this competition a celebration of the very best. There are many children we are working with who have tremendous potential and it is time to recognise them.”

The entrance fee is £5 per entrant and all competitors should be around Grade 6 standard or above, though youngsters who have not taken a formal instrumental exam are still eligible to enter.

The competition will take place in two stages – Class Heats on Saturday, March 16 and Sunday 17 next year and the Grand Final on the evening of Saturday, April 20 at Stockton Baptist Tabernacle.

There will be six classes: Vocal, Piano, Strings (including guitar), Woodwind (including recorder), Brass and Percussion (tuned and untuned).

Closing date for entries is January 31.

If you would like to find out more about the competition or request an application form email the TVMEducationHub@stockton.gov.uk or 01642-603600.