In China's southern port city Shenzhen, the Golden Bell Popular Music Singing Contest was launched this week.

Organizers say the event is open to all professional and amateur pop singers. Those interested can register for the competition in sixty cities across China. They can enter their names at the offices of Shenzhen Radio and TV Group and the China Musicians' Society, or through major Internet portals like Sina and Tencent. Tryouts will be held in six major cities across China before the finals are held in Shenzhen. The event is China's first nationwide singing contest for both professional and amateur pop music singers.

(CCTV April 24, 2009)