Welsh harpist Catrin Finch is hoping to hit the right notes and encourage talented youngsters to enter the Texaco Young Musician of Wales 2007 competition launched last week.

The tenth biennial competition, sponsored by Texaco and organised in partnership with Cr Meibion De Cymru is open to young Welsh instrumentalists aged up to 20.

The young musicians will compete in a series of preliminary rounds and regional finals later this year.

The top five competitors from the regional selection process will take part in the final at the Sherman Theatre, Cardiff, in March 2007.

In addition to the Texaco Young Musician of Wales trophy, the winner will receive £1,000 prize money, second and third placed finalists will receive £750 and £500 respectively with the two other finalists taking away £250 each.

Paul Bray, manager of public and government affairs at Texaco said: "The competition has built up an excellent reputation since it began in 1989.

Many past winners have travelled the world performing and this prestigious title is a fantastic stepping stone for future success.

"I'm pleased that this year we have attracted the support of Catrin Finch.

She is a famous musician who younger people look up to and I hope her enthusiasm and passion for music will once again attract a high standard of entries to the event."

If they are based in Wales, the music departments at each of the finalists' schools will receive a donation equal to that won by the individual.

The finalists will also have the opportunity to play with the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra as part of their prize.

Application forms are being distributed to Welsh schools and youth orchestras and are available to download from www.texaco.co.uk/youngmusician. Alternatively, contact Ken Crowle of Cr Meibion De Cymru on 029 20 843631.