A NEW North-East music school aimed at helping the stars of the future is opening this weekend.

The Northern School of Contemporary Music (NSCM) is the idea of Stuie Ellerton, a drummer, frustrated by the lack of training facilities for music students in the North.

He is opening the school at The Forum music centre, in Darlington, for dedicated students who want to take their music to a professional level.

The centre was opened this year by owner Dave Cox in response to a lack of facilities for North-East musicians.

The school will include some of the country's finest tutors in instrumental, vocal and song-writing fields.

Mr Ellerton said: "The Forum is an ideal base where the NSCM can grow from.

"It has excellent facilities with the rehearsal rooms, recording studios, plus live gig area and caf/bar."

Anyone wanting to find out more about the NSCM can attend The Forum in Borough Road between 11am and 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. Alternatively, contact Mr Ellerton on 07973 736964.

Published: 19/07/2004