The annual “Concours” contest held by the Institute for Cultural Exchange with France (Idecaf) will be held from the end of this month to the end of April.

With its focus on contemporary French and Vietnamese songs, this year’s Concours Idecaf this year is held for local youth (aged 18 - 25) who are studying French in HCMC. The contestants must compete in twos.

In addition to performing the songs, the contestants also have to demonstrate their knowledge of French and Vietnamese music in the last decade (2000 to 2010).

The contest’s finale, held on April 29, will consist of competition of amateur composers who perform their own less-than-three-minute songs, with 10 to 20 words given by the organizers.

The top prize will be a 7-daytrip to France for the two members of the winning team.

Second and third prize winners will receive cash awards of VND8 million and VND6 million respectively.

Three consolation prizes worth VND2 million each will also be given.

The deadline for registration is March 25. Auditions will select the best six teams based on basic knowledge of music and composition.

More information is available at: www.idecaf. gov.vn.