The annual "2006 Hong Kong Youth Music Camp" applications are now open. This popular summer programme offers young musicians training from renowned local, overseas and Mainland musicians while sharing experiences with other budding musicians in a scenic, natural environment.

The camp is held at the Tso Kung Tam Outdoor Recreation Centre, and is presented by the Leisure & Cultural Services Department's Music Office and sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.

There are two sessions: Camp A will be held from July 23 to 30 and Camp B from July 30 to August 6. Qualified young musicians aged nine to 25 are invited to apply.

Campers can participate in one of the intensive training programmes in band, orchestra or chorus as well as a programme of musical and recreational activities designed for relaxation and to develop musical skills. Two concerts at the conclusion of the camp will showcase their achievements.

The music groups include symphony orchestra, junior Chinese orchestra, children's choir and junior symphonic band in Camp A, and Chinese orchestra, junior string orchestra and symphonic band in Camp B.

The camp fees per person are $350 for the children's choir and junior symphonic band, for four days and three nights. For other music groups, the per-person camp fees are $700 for seven days and six nights.

World-class musicians to participate

Renowned musicians participating in this year's training programme include:

* Quincy, Illinois Symphony Orchestra Music Director & Conductor Jack Ranney;

* World Association for Symphonic Bands & Ensembles President and University of Calgary's Wind Ensembles Director Dr Glenn Price;

* Guangzhou Broadcasting Folk Orchestra Music Director & Conductor Li Fubin;

* Rider University's Westminster Choir College Assistant Professor of Music Education Lynnel Jenkins; and

* Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra Former Resident Conductor and Shanghai Conservatory of Music Former Professor Xia Feiyun.

A day camp is also available for organisations to experience the student's music and participate in the recreational activities. The cost is $36 per person per day.

Application forms are available from the Music Office's music centres or from the Leisure & Cultural Service Department's website. The deadline for applications for the residential camp is May 2, and for day camp, May 20.