The Moore Philharmonic Orchestra announces its solo competition for Moore County students.

"This program is part of the MPO Scholarship Program to support music education in Moore County," said Eric Kopecky, music director and conductor.

The competition is open to all instrumental students currently enrolled in public, private, or accredited home schools in Moore County and under the age of 21 by Dec. 31.

Applications can be downloaded from the Web site www.mporhestra.com or picked up from Kopecky at Southern Middle School and must be postmarked by Nov. 14.

To simplify the audition process, students are to use the solo selection for All State Auditions for the 2008-2009 school year. Wind and percussion players should use the 11th-12th- grade selection.

Any student who does not have access to these solos should contact the Moore Philharmonic Web site.

The winner will be announced at the Moore Philharmonic Orchestra holiday concert Dec. 12, at Sandhills Community College. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship and an opportunity to perform a solo of his/her choice with the MPO at the May spring concert. The runner-up will receive a $250 scholarship.

"The MPO is committed to supporting music education in the county through this and other student programs," says Kopecky. "We welcome students to join the MPO as a supplement to their school programs and private lessons. As the only symphony orchestra located in Moore County, we offer students an opportunity to experience the music and environment that they will encounter in their future development."

By streamlining the audition process, the MPO hopes to dramatically increase the number of competitors, especially from the public schools where there are a tremendous number of talented and high potential music students. This concerto competition will be an important experience to any music student that plans to participate in All-County Music Programs.

The scholarship awards can be tailored individually to each winner's developmental needs.