Young violinists' global contest

A 1962 picture of contest founder Yehudi Menuhin, who died in 1999

Young violinists from across the world are in Cardiff for a prestigious competition which is being held in the city for the first time.

A total of 41 finalists from 19 nations, with the youngest aged 10, are taking part in The Menuhin Competition in venues across the city and outside.

Founded by violinist Yehudi Menuhin 25 years ago, it runs until Sunday.

As well as concerts, workshops, and lunchtime recitals there are also sessions involving local schools.

Competition director Gordon Back said: "As a Welshman, I am delighted that the competition is coming to Wales, a land of great musical traditions and first-class concert halls".

He said audiences were witnessing "a range of stunning performances with a varied and challenging repertoire designed to test the skills of each player.

We are excited by the prospect of such fine and talented individuals performing in Cardiff and for the first time in Wales Hilary Boulding, principal, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

"All this in front of an all-star jury."

The competition attracts some of the world's finest young musicians, who all have to be under the age of 22.

Rounds will also be streamed live on the internet via the competition's website.

At the closing gala and prize-giving ceremony on Sunday, the junior and senior competition winners will perform alongside world-class artists Dong-Suk Kang, Jennifer Pike and Grammy Award-winning soprano Rebecca Evans.

They will be accompanied by the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera.

Previous winners include Tasmin Little and Nikolaj Znaider, who have achieved renowned international success.

The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and the University of Glamorgan's Cardiff School of Creative and Cultural Industries are involved in hosting the competition.

The heats for both junior and senior competitions will take place in the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Concert Hall followed by the finals at St David's Hall.

Hilary Boulding, principal of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama said: "Both institutions feel privileged to be involved with this world-leading competition and we are excited by the prospect of such fine and talented individuals performing in Cardiff and for the first time in Wales."

The National Museum of Wales, and Fonmon Castle in Barry will also provide a setting for the concerts.