The Local Emerging Artists Program (LEAP) runs for three weeks and features a host of young talents who will perform at cafes, restaurants and bars across the city.

Among the performers are Bathurst High School students Tameka Kennedy, 17, and Josie Hall, 16, who together are called the September Fools.

The young women are passionate about music and enjoy playing a range of pop covers from The Vamps to New Hope Club.

Guitarist and vocalist Tamkea performed during LEAP last year and is excited about hitting the stage again.

“It gives us more opportunities,” she said.

Josie, who plays bass guitar and is new to LEAP, receives music tuition from from 2015 Toyota Star Maker winner Mickey Pye.

LEAP co-ordinator Kylie Shead said this year’s bumper program was not to be missed.

“We had 32 auditions and they all get an opportunity to perform at a cafe, but only the best of the best, or the ones who are ready, perform at the Inland Sea of Sound [on November 3-4],” she said.

Ms Shead said LEAP gives emerging artists the opportunity to be mentored and perform to increase their abilities and confidence during performances.

Held each year, LEAP is the forefunner to the Inland Sea of Sound festival at Mount Panorama.

Bathurst RSL Club hosted LEAP’s launch on Wednesday evening, with the next shows on this Friday.

For performance times, locations and the full program visit BMEC Bathurst’s Facebook page.