The panel: Composer Huy Tuan (left), singer Thanh Lam (centre) and director Viet Tu will judge this year's Sao Mai Diem Hen contest. — Photo m.tinnhanh247.vn

HA NOI (VNS) — Twelve young singers are competing in the final round of the popular singing contest Sao Mai Diem Hen (Morning Star - Rendezvous) hosted by Viet Nam Television.

The 12 finalists, who were selected from contestants in Ha Noi and HCM City, will be trained by well-known composer Anh Quan and singer My Linh.

Anh Quan, the contest's musical director, is excited about finding new talents from the national contest.

Unlike other reality shows that had been luring amateur artists, the Sao Mai Diem Hen contest focused on professionalism, according to composer Quan.

"The 12 singers all come from music schools. They believe the contest will help them to succeed in their careers. I think they will give us a surprise this season," Quan said.

The final round will feature eight shows featuring different genres of music such as pop, rock, hip hop and R&B.

The contestants will be requested to sing two songs on each show.

The judges have been named as composer Huy Tuan, singer Thanh Lam and director Viet Tu.

On the final night, three finalists will perform to decide the winner following an audience vote.

The contest was started by Viet Nam Television and has been held biennially since 2004. The winners have become popular and received critical acclaim.

"The Sao Mai Diem Hen contest has launched amateur singers' careers. Young singers will be advised by experienced artists to establish their strengths and music style," said Trinh Le Van, head of the contest organisation.

The final round will be aired on VTV 6 every Friday at 8pm from July 4. — VNS