Last year's competition winner Samantha Grint

WATCHED reality shows The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent and think you could sing better? Well, read on.

An annual singing competition for talented youngsters that either live or go to school in the East Herts, Stevenage, Welwyn Hatfield or Broxbourne areas will soon be holding auditions for this year’s contest.

Hertford-based Inspirational Arts is once again promoting its singing showcase 3Music.

Formally known as Pop Luck, 3Music is back for a ninth year and the search is now on to find the 3Music Young Artist 2012.

The organisers are working in partnership with the Hertfordshire Music Service and Welwyn Hatfield Council to give young performers the opportunity to step into the limelight.

The 3Music project will culminate in a final showcase being held at the Weston Auditorium, on the de Havilland Campus at the University of Hertfordshire, in Hatfield, as part of the Heart of Flame weekend in July – Hertfordshire’s Olympic Torch Relay celebration.

The first stage of the competition will launch next month, with Inspirational Arts looking for young singers aged between 11 and 19 years old to attend open auditions.

They begin on Saturday, March 10 at The Bowes Lyon Centre in Stevenage.

Auditions switch to The Valle Academy, in Cheshunt, the following day.

The WGC heat will be on Saturday, March 24 at Campus West, with the final chance to audition taking place on Sunday, March 25 at Graphic Nature Studios, in Hertford.

Those successful at the auditions will be given the chance to work with industry experts and receive vocal tuition at workshops before auditioning again for a chance to perform at the final.

The contest gives young people the chance to shine and there is a selection of career-enhancing prizes up for grabs from photo shoots to recording sessions.

Over the years 3Music has acted as a starting block for many young performers seeking a career in the theatre and music industry.

Following her 3Music success the 2006, winner Jade Williams – known in the industry as Sunday Girl – is now signed to Universal Records and currently enjoying chart success, while singer-songwriter Samantha Grint, the 2011 winner, is currently recording her album, due for release later this year.

To reserve an audition slot contestants need to email 3music@inspirationalarts.org.uk or complete the online application form www.inspirationalarts.org.uk