Hartlepool and Billingham teenagers in Soundwaves final

Solo artists Courtney Hadwin, 11, from Hartlepool, and Leah Marie Sanderson, 16, from Billingham, have reached the final of the competition which will see them perform at the O2 Academy Newcastle tomorrow.

The pair will get the chance to perform three songs along with the 12 other contestants chosen out of 300 artists to take part in the finale.

The Soundwaves Music Competition, now in its sixth year, offers unsigned acts the chance to gain exposure to assist in furthering their careers.

Artists had to go through a series of audition stages before they perform in front of industry judges which include Spark FM presenters and song writer Alex Robson who has worked with the likes of Sam Smith.

Courtney Hadwin performs regularly across Hartlepool and beyond and is very excited about the opportunity to play on the same stage The Voice UK sensation Olivia Lawson who appeared on the hit BBC show during the last series.

Courtney’s mum Anne-Marie Hadwin said: “She had to submit a video, have closed door audition then one in front of an audience in the Head of Steam in Newcastle, submit a second video and now she will perform on Saturday. She has been singing the last two years and has performed around Hartlepool at the Christmas lights switch on and fireworks.”

The winning competition act on the night will receive a fantastic prize package, including a full day’s recording at Broadwater Recording Studios as well as radio airtime, press coverage, magazine interviews, and photo shoots.

Leah Marie’s mum Tracy Sanderson said she was very proud of her daughter.

“I am very proud of her, she is doing quite well with her singing,” she said.

“She has been having lessons with a singing teacher and it is something she wants to persue as a career. She is a really good perfomer and doesn’t get nervous as she has done that many gigs in pubs and venues across the area with her eight piece band.”

Doors open at 5.30pm. Tickets are £6.50 and are available on the door or online at: https://academymusicgroup.com/o2academynewcastle/