CRAIG David, Band of Skulls, Alt-J, and Frank Turner – just some of the talented bands and artists Hampshire has produced over the years.

Now the most exciting musicians from colleges across the region will battle it out to play at a major sporting event at Southampton Solent University’s Solent Sound Competition.

A total of 11 acts will compete at the annual event today and tomorrow to win a stadium support slot during a T20 cricket match at the Ageas Bowl – home of Hampshire cricket club.

The event will be filmed in front of a live audience and judged by a panel of industry experts including A&R manager Giles Stanley, writer and music producer Paul Statham, and Prof Paul Rutter, programme group leader for popular music at the university.

The colleges taking part in the region include Itchen College, Richard Taunton College, and Fareham College. The musicians have received guidance throughout the year from student mentors on the popular music performance and popular music production degree courses.

Other prizes up for grabs include support slots at The Joiners in St Mary’s, Southampton, and a day in the university’s industrystandard recording studios.

The competition is free to attend and doors open at 4.45pm on both days.

Event organiser Chris Jackson said: “We’re passionate about nurturing talent at Solent University.

“This is just one example of the innovative partnership projects we run with local schools and colleges.”