Stirling Rock School launched with a mighty musical bang.

Up-and-coming band Something, Someone kicked things off with a sparkling set, while other young artists showcased their sweet sounds throughout the evening (23 October).

The Rock School, based within Stageworx at Millhall East Industrial Estate, is the brainchild of Brian Hurren (34).

Brian, a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and producer, has been playing keyboard for Runrig for over a decade.

He told the News: “I have been involved with music as far back as I can remember. I remember playing keyboard before anything else. I have always loved music. Music to me is like a good film. It takes you on an emotional journey and one good song can change your life.

“I knew from a young age I wanted to be involved in music. I worked in a music shop in Stirling when I was a teenager and cut my teeth playing various gigs in and around Stirling.

“You couldn’t get me out of the music department at school. I learned to play a few instruments, mainly keyboard, piano, drums and guitar.

“I went on to study for a B.A in music performance at Perth College, which at the time was a very popular rock course.

“When I was at college I spent a lot of time in the studios. So when Runrig were looking for a new keyboard player, they asked one of their producers for a recommendation. Brian Young happened to be a lecturer in Sound Engineering at Perth College and had got to know me through various studio sessions.

“My name was put forward and the rest is history. I have now been touring with Runrig for 12 years and have been lucky enough to play on some amazing stages as far as Stornoway to New York.” Having accumulated a lot of studio equipment following the recording of his solo album, Brian spoke to David Greer from Stageworx.

Brian said: “I had done a lot of work with David and their studio rooms were lying empty. So the idea for not just a studio but a tuition centre was born.

“Thinking back to college and working in a music shop, I remember how lucky I was to have access to such professional equipment. I was able to learn so much more than just my instrument that is vital to my role as a professional musician today. I have always been passionate about giving something back and being able to offer other people the same opportunity.” Brian offers classes and one-to-one in keyboard, piano, guitar and drums. He also provides bespoke tuition, pre-school music lessons and recording sessions.

He added: “Stirling Rock School has such an amazing musical environment, with all the tools to make modern music. I feel it is vital for inspiration as well as an opportunity for those wishing to make music and experiment with music in so many different ways than just a standard music lesson.

“I hope to get people excited about music and creativity, rather than the sometimes difficult and challenging process of learning an instrument. We are now a London Trinity Exam Centre, so we can offer exams in most instruments and theory here at the school.

“This is really exciting as the Trinity Course offers young musicians the chance to write their own music for their exam as well as set pieces.

“I really want Stirling Rock School to be the focus of quality tuition, amazing instruments and facilities and a musical centre for the whole Forth Valley area and beyond.

“We are having our first Christmas concert this year too with many of our students getting together to perform songs of many different styles.

“It is an exciting time ahead.” For more information about Stirling Rock School, classes available, or to book a free trial, go to www.planetkeys.co.uk/stirlingrockschool or call 01786 448 417.