The third edition of the Sharjah Junior Munshid, a chanting contest for juniors organised by the Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC), has recently concluded the audition phase, which has discovered a number of highly talented youngsters with exceptional singing skills.

The competition received a huge response from school students in the Emirate of Sharjah, with the judging panel listening to an overwhelming total of 745 participants at the auditions.

The jury selected 64 contestants to compete in the second round after which only eight participants will be shortlisted for the final. The finalists will sing at the concluding night where the winner of the Sharjah Junior Munshid will be announced.

The auditions were held in theatres and cultural centres across Sharjah, where the Sharjah Institute of Theatrical Arts, Al Dhaid Cultural Centre and Khorfakkan Cultural Centre received male and female junior participants.

"This form of chanting is a unique rhythmic singing technique which embraces more than just the music itself. It is based on the strength, pitch and tone of the chanter’s voice, as well as their knowledge of musical notes, Arabic Makams (melodic modes), and the understanding of which to choose while singing," said Najm Al Deen Hashem, Executive Producer of the programme.

"We are delighted with the incredible response to the auditions, where we aimed to involve school students in the third edition of the programme. Many people follow the show and wait for its new auditions and competitions each year. Given the high level of the chanting skills, and the variety of contestants’ voices, we promise our audience that this season they will see exceptionally talented young people who have a bright chanting future," he added.

Produced and organised by the Sharjah Media Corporation, the Sharjah Junior Munshid is in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to promote artistic values and cultural aspects among future generations, as well as promote meaningful creative art regionally and internationally.

Sharjah Junior Munshid has contributed to enriching the Arab artistic scene with inspirational and creative vocal talent. Its impressive previous successes have culminated in identifying the best three young vocalists of each season. As well as the honour of taking the title, the winners were featured in video clips that are still broadcast on Sharjah Television and a number of Arabic and global websites.