If you are aged 11-19 (whether in formal education or not) from Great Britain and Northern Ireland and are talented, register for Next BRIT Thing - a major new nationwide music competition backed by the UK music industry, The BRIT Awards and The Government.

Next BRIT Thing is looking for young musicians in any genre to share their performances, compete in online charts and perform live. There are three awards up for grabs – General (covering Pop, Rock, Urban, Folk and Jazz), Classical and an additional award for Composition, supported by PRS for Music.

This offers entrants a raft of prizes and money-can’t-buy opportunities, including the chance to perform in front of thousands and exclusive support and guidance from famous musicians and songwriters.

The lucky winners – to be chosen by a team of influential artists and senior music industry executives – will be crowned Next BRIT Thing and receive a unique award in the run-up to the 2012 BRIT Awards.

Young people entering Next BRIT Thing will also have access to high-quality tutorials and resources to help them improve their skills, develop confidence and explore careers in music or other creative industries.

“It's tough to get started in the music industry and Next BRIT thing is a brilliant competition that gives all young people in the UK a chance to make it big. If you love music, get involved.” Pixie Lott

You can register on www.nextbritthing.com is already open for registration, and join www.facebook.com/nextbritthing and also get tweeting on their Twitter - @nextbritthing.

From September 2011, entrants can submit video and audio of their performances to be assessed by their peers in an Official Next BRIT Thing weekly chart. The most popular entries each week will progress to regional finals in November 2011, culminating in a national final early in 2012.