A BUDDING musician is on the brink of stardom after taking part in a major talent contest.

Alex Toye, 30, is hoping to win a contract with a leading record label by competing in the regional final of Live and Unsigned, South Coast Idol.

He was scheduled to perform I want you in my life at Pure Nightclub in High Wycombe last night, battling against 15 other hopefuls for a place in the final. Alex made it past hundreds during the auditions in Wycombe and the regional semi-final. Now his aim is to reach the grand final in Portsmouth on May 26 with the opportunity to tour South England if he wins best individual male.

The singer and acoustic guitarist has performed solo gigs recently at the Red Lion in Knotty Green and High Wycombe town hall.

Alex formed his first band, Finbar, whilst at Dr Challoners Grammar School in Amersham.

He currently lives in Woodside Avenue, Beaconsfield and works for TNS in High Wycombe. Alex studied for a Diploma in Music Industry Management at BCUC.

"The course at BCUC gave me a great insight into the inner workings of the music industry. Knowing how a record company is set up, how a publishing deal works, and how to promote an event can be very useful to an aspiring artist looking to self-promote with the aim of getting a record deal.

"The tutors have a lot of industry experience and were always willing to give advice and even listen to and give feedback on demo tapes.

"The studio facilities are also very useful to a musician and you have the opportunity to learn about production techniques which really helps when it comes to recording your own music.

"If I get offered a record deal and signed with a record company, the course will make sure that I am going in with my eyes wide open, and I think it gives me an edge over other artists who may be a bit more naïve as to how things really work."