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Aberdeen is gearing up to welcome musicians from the four corners of the globe to take part in the classical music world's answer to Pop Idol.

The University of Aberdeen's inaugural Music Prize Weekend, which takes place next weekend, will feature a packed programme of concerts and workshop sessions.

It is hoped that around 2,000 people, including members of the public, school pupils and music groups, will take part in the event.

The prize has attracted more than 400 scores from international composers all competing for the coveted prize of £5,000 and a commission for a full-scale work to be played by the Scottish Symphony Orchestra and broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

The five finalists come from Russia, South Korea, England and Scotland and will be judged by distinguished musicians Jonathan Harvey and Robert Saxton.

Dr Paul Mealor, director of the event, said: "The Music Prize is sure to be a fun-packed, informative and interesting opportunity to find out about the process of composing classical music.

"Aberdeen will play host to one of the biggest competitions of its kind anywhere in the world.

"All eyes will be on the north-east of Scotland as five of the best composers battle it out for the top prize."

Highlights of the event include two concerts by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and the chance for the public to go behind the scenes as the orchestra rehearses the five new string quartet pieces which have been shortlisted for the prestigious award.

The weekend events will culminate with a Gala Concert at the city's Cowdray Hall on Sunday, May 1 at 7.30pm at which the winner will be announced.

The public will also be invited to put their own musical talents to the test and use some of the latest music technology during a free beginners' session in the university's Create Studio.

Admission to this event, which takes place on Saturday, April 30 at 2pm in the university's James McKay Hall, is free and composer Bill Thompson will lead the afternoon's fun.

Composer Pete Stollery will also give pupils from Kincorth Academy a lesson entitled Sculpting in Sound at the same venue at 10am on the same day and anyone is welcome to go along to hear music in the making.

There will also be an organ recital by Dr Roger Williams, at King's College Chapel on Sunday, May 1 at 1pm. The university organist will perform contemporary organ works on the new Aubertin Organ.

The university's Elphinstone Hall will also be the venue for a 2.30pm concert of contemporary works, including pieces by The Queen's Master of Music, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and Jennifer Martin. Mark O'Keefe, principal trumpet player of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra will perform at this event.

Copies of the programme are available from Aberdeen Box Office or by calling Aberdeen University on 01224 274444. The full programme of events and booking information can be obtained at www.abdn.ac.uk/ aberdeenmusicprize