Young stars take the stage

MUSICIANS: Children are invited to take the stage at the next Open Mic Challenge on April 12. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Kids test out their vocal skills

Children were given the chance to get on stage and sing their favourite songs stress free.

Last week the Central Baptist Church held an Open Mic Challenge for the first time for children in Years 3 to 8.

The open mic night was not judged, it was a fun and relaxed environment where the children were encouraged to try out their vocal skills on stage.

Organiser Nicky Vallender said the experience allowed the children to decide if singing and performing was for them.

"There is nothing out there like this for children of this age, the children were able to use the experience and be exposed without costing too much money."

Many children performed including students from College Street School who were in the school band.

The challenges run every second Tuesday of each month until November with the help and advice of local experts from the music industry.

The next challenge is on April 12, at 6pm.

All students who perform in the Open Mic nights get a chance to perform at the November showcase which will be judged where they could win scholarships.

"Your children will never know if they like to perform until they do it. It is always rewarding for them in the end and gets them out of the bedroom singing to Madonna," Ms Vallender said.

Participation is free, adults watching are $5, school-aged children are $2 and under are free.

For more information visit www.openmicchallenge.co.nz.