BBC Radio 2 is once again searching for outstanding young musicians and singers and inviting entries to the Radio 2 Young Folk Award 2012.

The competition is looking for performers aged between 15 and 20 who perform folk, roots or acoustic music from any culture. It is open to soloists, duos and groups.

::  APPLICATIONS FOR THE RADIO 2 FOLK AWARD 2012 HAVE NOW CLOSED :: 

The closing date for applications was Friday 9 September 2011.

THE COMPETITION
The first stage of the competition will be judged on a submitted recording. Ten successful entries will then be invited to take part in a semi-final audition weekend in Kendal, Cumbria between 21 and 23 October 2011.

The audition weekend includes sessions and workshops and will provide the opportunity for the musicians and singers to meet and perform. Respected folk musicians Andy Cutting and Bella Hardy will tutor at the workshops. The weekend culminates in a concert presented by Mike Harding and open to members of the public, featuring performances from each semi-finalist. A panel of judges will then select a shortlist of four acts to go through to the final stage.

The prizes for the winner of the Radio 2 Young Folk Award include the opportunity to record a session for Mike Harding's show and to perform at top UK festivals in 2012, including the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival.

The Folk Awards will be held on Wednesday 8 February 2012 in Salford, Manchester.

Previous winners of the Radio 2 Young Folk Award include Tim van Eyken, who won the inaugural title in 1998, Uiscedwr, Last Orders, Jeana Leslie & Siobhan Miller, Megan & Joe Henwood, James Findlay and last year's winners Moore, Moss, Rutter.

Please note: terms and conditions for Young Folk Award 2012 are included on the application form.