YOUNG musicians are being given the chance to show- case their talents in a competition.

Following the success of the Stockton Young Musician 2003 competition, which celebrated the 75th anniversary of Stockton Rotary Club, members have given their approval for a similar competition next year.

The competition will be for young musicians who live in Stockton or are attending school or college in the borough.

It will also be open to members of any of the ensembles organised by the Stockton-based Tees Valley Music Service.

There will be six classes - vocal, piano, strings, woodwind, brass and percussion - and the competition will take place over the weekend of February 26 and 27.

The class winners will go on to the final, which will take the form of a public concert, in the Stockton Baptist Tabernacle, on Saturday, April 16.

Each class winner will receive a memento and a book or CD token.

The overall winner, the Stockton Young Musician 2005 will receive the Stockton Rotary Club Trophy and a cheque for £250.

Brochures and entry forms will be distributed to schools, colleges and music teachers within the next few weeks.

Copies will also be available by calling Harry Cameron on (01642) 653046, or from The Tees Valley Music Service by calling (01642) 603600.

Entries must be received by the end of October.

Published: 08/05/2004