BBC gets into music competition act

Chennai, Oct 4: BBC World Service has announced the launch of 'The Next Big Thing', a music competition to find some of the world's finest young groups and solo artists who are amateurs.

The contest is part of a special season of programmes from BBC World Service, 'Generation Next', which explores through the eyes of the next generation their passions, concerns and interests, a BBC release said here today.

'The contest is open to anyone anywhere in the world as long as they are 18 or under on November three, 2006. Music by the entrants will be played on BBC World Service throughout the autumn. A winner will be chosen in December during a one-hour special broadcast from among six acts short-listed by listeners and music industry experts,' it said.

The competition's aim was to give a helping hand to young artists who might not have access to the music industry, the release said, adding, there was fantastic music talent all over the world but many people struggled to get the first break. 'Thats where we come in.' Artists, who were interested in entering the competition, should send one track to BBC World Service by November three. CDs and tapes should be sent to 'The Next Big Thing, Bush House, London, UK. MP3s could be emailed to the BBC at ''[email protected]'', the release added.

UNI