After a nail-biting finish, the finalists in the 2013 JCDC Jamaica Children's Gospel Song Competition were chosen from over 40 entrants at the semi-final round held recently at the Eastwood Park New Testament Church of God in Kingston.

Under the theme, 'Children Of The Rock', the semi-final took the form of a concert which saw the children performing cover songs from the gospel repertoire of local and international singers, and original songs written by the children.

The top four finalists in each class and category (six-10-year-olds, 11-15-year-olds, choir, solo, and ensemble) will now vie for the national title at the grand final scheduled to be held during child month.

Stephen Davidson, director, marketing & public relations, noted that, "a new component has been added to the competition, which will see the finalists conducting creative workshops and ministering to children in some of the state-owned child-care facilities. The workshops and ministry will be done through drama, puppetry, dance, music and mime."

The competition, which started in 2003, allows children from the ages of six to 15 years to express themselves utilising both cover and original song entries. The competition is open to Jamaican citizens and children residing in Jamaica for a period of not less than two years at the closing date for entries. The top two most talented performers are awarded prizes and trophies in the solo, ensemble and choir categories.

The national final of the Jamaica Children's Gospel Song Competition is slated to take place on Sunday, May 26, at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, commencing at 7 p.m.