Somerset Song Prize: Semi-finals and finals in Taunton

It starts with the semi-finals on Saturday, starting at 1.30pm, while the final gets underway on Sunday - all at Temple Methodist Church.

The national singing competition brings together young classical singers and their pianists from across the country, with six pairs set to make it to the final stage.

First established in 2013, the Somerset Song Prize is a biennial competition for young artists aged 18 to 26, catering to the genre of art song.

The judging panel, led by distinguished adjudicator Roger Vignoles, not only takes into account the performances of the singers, but also emphasises the collaborative relationship between the singer and their pianist.

Audience members will have the opportunity to have their say as well, with an audience vote for favourite singer included in the proceedings.

Further stakes in the competition come in the form of generous cash prizes for both the winning singer and pianist, who will each receive £1000.

Other cash prizes will be awarded in addition to these main rewards.

The Somerset Song Prize operates under the aegis of the Taunton Festival of the Arts and has garnered a strong reputation in the music community.

Lucy Colquhoun, winner of the pianist prize in 2015, explained: "The competition places a considerable emphasis on the concept of the duo which I think is largely underestimated by other outfits of a similar nature.

"It brings people together."

Indeed, this duality has become a staple of the competition, which is symbolised by their "allabouttheduo" hashtag.

Notable figures in the local community have also expressed their gratitude for the competition's contribution.

Nigel Muers-Raby, CEO and founder of the Passion for Somerset Community Interest Company, added: "We are delighted that such an important event, the Semi-Final and Final of the Somerset Song Prize competition are taking place over the Somerset Day weekend this year.

"We are indeed fortunate to have such a prestigious national event taking place here in Somerset."

Tickets for the competition can be purchased from the Taunton Visitor Centre, on the door, or via the Somerset Song Prize website. For more information about the competition and upcoming events, contact the organisers via email: info@somersetsongprize.org.uk.