Young ukulele players in Hawaii have until this Wednesday to enter the annual Duke's Ukes competition, a rare shot at a paid stage for local musicians.

• Entries close Wednesday, September 16, through the Duke's Waikiki website.
• The contest runs in four categories, including a junior division.
• Winners get to perform live at Duke's Waikiki restaurant.
• Ukulele maker Kamaka is among the sponsors backing the event.
• Last year's winner, Cruz Ferreira, credits family support and says newcomers should just show up and enjoy it.

Outlook: The competition takes place next month in Waikiki, with finalists drawn from the entries submitted this week.