MUSIC lovers in Peeblesshire will come together next week to see who will move on to the next stage of the Rotary Young Musician Competition.

The local round of the competition takes place at the Eastgate Theatre on Thursday, November 9 at 7.30pm.

Audiences will be treated to a range of musical styles from aspiring solo singers and instrumentalists.

Andrew Clarke, youth convener for the Rotary Club of Peebles, said: "The evening is always a varied and uplifting experience for contestants and audience."

Next week's competition is run in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Innerleithen, Walkerburn and Traquair.

Last year's winner, Michael Gemmell, who went on to win in the wider area heats as a pianist, spoke with the Rotary Club about his time in the competition last year.

He said: “I loved being able to perform in different venues around Scotland and receive very valuable feedback from well-respected adjudicators.

"It helped me realise my love for playing for a live audience and grew my desire to pursue musical performance as a career.”

Michael, who is a piano tutor with Nomad Beat, has his sights set on a career as a musician.

He added: “I have a great wish to pursue a career in musical performance but I do understand the competitive nature in this line of work.

"So, I have been gathering a portfolio of musical experience, such as accompanying and teaching, as I hope to have a varied career in different lines of musical work to support my future.”

Tickets for the performance on November 9 are available now priced £8 (£5 concession) from the Eastgate Box Office on 01721725777 or online www.eastgatearts.com.

In addition to the Young Musician Competition, local schools are being encouraged to get involved with the Rotary's other competitions including: Young Chef, Young Writer, Young Environmentalist, Young Artist, Young Filmmaker, Youth Speaks, Young Photographer and Young Citizen.

Peeblesshire entrants to any Rotary competitions who need assistance can contact Andrew Clarke at: andy@one-a.co.uk