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Dover College is opening a brand new music school in its grounds in Dover, and who better to inspire young musicians than Julian Lloyd Webber.

Lloyd Webber, 62, launched his career in music after winning a scholarship to The Royal College of Music at the age of 16. He has gone on to become one of the world’s most renowned cellists and music creators.

Following in his footsteps is Dover College graduate Elspeth Robertson who has received a scholarship from the Royal College of Music and will be performing at the grand opening of the music school.

"Our plan is to significantly increase the number of pupils taking music lessons, and we will be adding to our music scholarships,” said Headmaster of Dover College, Stephen Jones. “It's all about encouraging youngsters to sing and play an instrument."

The brother of composer Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, who is married to fellow cellist, Jiaxin Chung, is expecting a baby in the Summer. He is currently celebrating his 60th Birthday with an Anniversary Gala. He will open the Tallis Music School at Dover College on Saturday 29th January.

The hall is named after Thomas Tallis, a composer born in Kent around 1505. To many, he is the most important composer of the Tudor times. He wrote The Lamentations of Jeremiah and If Ye Love Me, which will be performed on the day by the Dover College school choir.

Dover College will be organising Primary Schools Music Days in March, inviting local schools to participate in a music lesson and then perform a concert for the parents to attend. The college currently runs a chapel choir, madrigal group, choral society, orchestra, jazz band and a number of smaller ensembles, with plenty of opportunities for pupils to perform at any level and in any style.

“Dover College is always on the lookout for potential musicians amongst our pupils and from outside,” said Director of Music, Paul Young. "Scholarships are awarded annually to those who show potential or have gained a sufficiently high standard on their instrument or voice. Naturally, we hope that such improved facilities will encourage others to want to join us and become part of our musical environment here at Dover College.”