Lichfield Cathedral School

Pupils aged between 6 and 16 from Lichfield Cathedral School were delighted to take part in a masterclass by world-famous cellist Julian Lloyd Webber on Wednesday 3rd March.

Sixty Lichfield Cathedral School students were joined by 30 pupils and teachers from local schools to hear Julian share some insider secrets on improving performance.

The masterclass focused around three Lichfield Cathedral School string players: Charlotte Howdle, aged 9 who plays Grade 5 violin; Ciara Bryan, aged 11 who plays Grade 4 cello; and Kathryn McIntosh, aged 15, who plays Grade 5 cello and is currently studying GCSE Music. All three girls play in the School’s Concert Orchestra.

“Julian is a passionate champion of classical music education and string playing in particular. His informal and friendly approach created a relaxed atmosphere, and the pupils really responded to his warm enthusiasm”, said Nick Parrans-Smith, Director of Music at Lichfield Cathedral School. “We were honoured that Julian took time out of his incredibly busy schedule to join us at the School. The pupils learned specific techniques to refine their performance, and gained invaluable advice from a world-renowned performer on developing music as a career.”

“Hopefully the pupils will put what they have learned to good use and remember that, even today, Mr Lloyd Webber practices for 4 hours every day!”