Applications must be submitted by 6 September 2013. Find our more and download the Young Folk Award application form from the BBC website
Neil Pearson, the English Folk Dance and Song Society’s (EFDSS) Artist Development and Programming Manager, said: “The BBC Young Folk Award is an excellent event that offers much more that the accolade of being crowned winners - the Young Folk weekend offers artists the chance to work with their peers and established artists to develop skills and contacts that are a genuine help at the start of their careers.
“We encourage all young artists who feel they are ready for this process to apply to the BBC Young Folk Awards.”
The first stage of the contest will be judged on a submitted recording. Ten successful entries will then be invited to take part in the Young Folk Award Weekend in Kendal, Cumbria between 18 and 20 October 2013.
The weekend includes sessions and workshops and will provide an opportunity for the musicians and singers to meet and perform. Respected musicians John Spiers & Rachael McShane (both of Bellowhead) and John Smith will tutor at the workshops. The weekend culminates in a concert presented by Mark Radcliffe and open to members of the public, featuring performances from each act. Book your free ticket here
A panel of judges will then select a shortlist of four acts to become the nominees for the 2014 Young Folk Award. The winner will be announced at the prestigious BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in February 2014.
The prizes for the winner of the Young Folk Award include the opportunity to perform live in session for Radio 2’s Folk Show and to perform at top UK festivals in 2014, including the prestigious Cambridge Folk Festival.