A CALL has been sounded for young musicians in Shropshire, Mid Wales and beyond to apply for a chance to showcase their talents.

Shrewsbury Folk Festival has opened applications for its Launchpad stage, which offers young musicians the platform to showcase their talents.

The festival is appealing for solo performers and groups aged 16 to 26 from Shropshire, Mid Wales, or the West Midlands to pitch for places.

Each of the successful candidates will be expected to perform a 30-minute acoustic set at least three times over the weekend at this year’s event at the West Mid Showground during August Bank Holiday (August 23-26).

Festival director Sandra Surtees said former Launchpad musicians were now enjoying some success in the professional area.

“The Trials of the Cato, who appeared in 2017, are now represented by an agent and showcased at the International Folk Alliance event in Canada this month. Chris Elliott and Caitlin Jones also performed on The Launchpad with a band in 2017 and went on to win our open mic in 2018 securing them a show on our Sabrina stage this August.

“For many of the performers, appearing on The Launchpad will be the first time they’ve ever had the opportunity to take part in a professional event like ours. It’s a good experience and the chance to reach a new audience. We’re inviting applications from any performers in the folk, roots or acoustic genre who’d like this opportunity.”

Successful applicants will receive a free artist and guest ticket, on-site camping, access to artist hospitality and a contribution to travel expenses.

To apply, send a short biography, links to performances (Soundcloud, YouTube etc) and contact details to jo@shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk before May 6.

Only the selected performers will be contacted.

This year’s festival headliners include Andy Fairweather Low and the Low Riders featuring the Hi Riders Soul Revue, Oysterband, Eddi Reader, Kate Rusby, Capercaillie, Martyn Joseph, Skerryvore and Birds of Chicago.