“The team and I have had the privilege of working with so many talented young people. The amazing thing about learning to play music is that the students aren’t just learning to play an instrument… they’re learning how to compromise and negotiate with bandmates, how to think creatively, they learn patience and discipline, but the most amazing thing to see is how their confidence grows.”
“My daughter gets keyboard lessons and absolutely loves it. She attends the Music Workshops so as well as learning keyboard, she’s also had a chance to try out drums and guitar. She finds the classes fun and it’s amazing to see how well her keyboard skills have come on in a short space of time.”
Brian Hurren Music Academy, previously known as Stirling Rock School, was opened by Runrig’s Brian Hurren in 2011.
Brian wanted to take his years of experience as a professional musician and his passion for music and channel it into teaching and inspiring the next generation of musicians… and what’s more inspiring than being taught by a touring musician who’s played on some of the world’s biggest stages?!
Over ten years Stirling Rock School has taught hundreds of students through lessons, music workshops and Band Camps.
Brian Hurren Music Academy offers the Trinity Rock and Pop syllabus and exams. We love the syllabus and what it offers students. We also offer bespoke pathways to suit each student individually, making the learning goals either an exam pathway, a performance pathway or just for enjoyment.
Brian Hurren Music Academy Workshops allow young students the chance to work with Brian to learn a specific instrument or take the opportunity to try different instruments in a creative and interactive way.
We want the focus to be about music and creativity. We have equipped the school with amazing instruments and facilities to make learning music engaging, creative and fun.
About Caroline:
After graduating from the University of the West of Scotland with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Commercial Music, Caroline was quickly offered a job as Manager of The Scottish Music Industry Association.
Over seven years at the SMIA, Caroline and the team developed initiatives to strengthen and champion the Scottish music industry and its output. She worked with the organisation’s board of directors to develop Scotland’s national music prize, The SAY Award. Developed to celebrate Scottish music and the cultural impact and contribution of outstanding Scottish albums, the SAY Award is now entering its tenth year and has awarded over £260,000 in prize money to Scottish artists.
In 2016 Caroline moved on from the SMIA and spent a year working in international PR before stepping back into the music industry with an Artist Management position at No Half Measures. While at No Half Measures Caroline had a hands-on role working daily with bands including Wet Wet Wet and Hue and Cry.
Throughout her career Caroline has also worked as a freelance music promoter, PR & marketing consultant and music and lifestyle journalist.
Caroline now runs Brian Hurren Music Academy with her partner Brian.