TV AUDIENCES have been left hanging on the edge of their armchairs as pop wannabes are given that famous Simon Cowell treatment.

But Hampshire youngsters dreaming of stardom will not have to endure such a nail-biting time when they step into a Fair Oak studio.

For the tidal wave following for shows like Pop Idol and Fame Academy, which have produced many young stars including Will Young and David Sneddon, has spurred Neil and Alex Barclay to launch their own search for talent.

The couple have set up So! Music Pop Artist Academy and are offering individual pop music tuition and coaching from a state-of-the-art studio at their Fair Oak home.

Neil, 44, was head teacher at Sherbourne House School, Chandler's Ford, but he swapped the classroom for the recording studio because he wanted to combine his love of teaching and music.

As a professional musician, he has composed music for film and television. His musical handywork has been broadcast on a variety of TV and satellite channels and he's even produced music for a BAFTA award-winning series called The Trust - Channel Four documentary on the problems facing the NHS.

With his experience in the music industry, Neil says he can help those with talent to take those star trodden steps.

But he has vowed not to adopt that famously harsh Simon Cowell style when it comes to giving advice on how to get on to the road to fame.

He says: "Pop Idol and Fame Academy have become very popular and these programmes will be around for a long time. There is a lot of talent out there."

And he does not expect all his pupils to have stars in their eyes.

For Neil and Alex, 34, who is also a fully trained and experienced teacher, say that their academy will be open to all abilities

Neil said: "We want to boost self-esteem, even if it is helping a youngster appear in the school play."

In between looking after their two young children, Alex will be taking care of the business and commercial side.

The So! Music Pop Artist Academy will offer a tailor-made package which will include vocal coaching and tuition in a range of singing styles - pop, ballad, rock and rap - as well as developing songwriting techniques.

Pupils will learn recording studio tricks and produce CDs.

To find out more contact Neil and Alex on 023 8069 2973 or visit www.so-music.co.uk