St Cecilia Youth Music Scholarships Committee president Chris Heazlewood said he was pleased to announce an increase in the value of the awards to $5700.

"One of the most valuable music awards for young people in Australia," Mr Heazlewood said.

He encouraged classical and contemporary musicians aged between eight and 18 – and living in the Eurobodalla, Bega Valley and Shoalhaven shires – to audition.

“There are senior and junior divisions, with auditions held at St Peter's Anglican College, Broulee, on October 21 and 22,” Mr Heazlewood said.

He said, following the auditions, 12 finalists would be announced and perform at the annual gala finalists concert at St Bernard Church, Batehaven, on November 26. The two senior scholarships were $1000 each.

"It is always a great concert, so mark the date in your diary,” Mr Heazlewood said.

More information: 0417 532 358 or stcecilia.org.au/.