Julian Lloyd Webber is to become the new Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire.

The cellist, who was forced to retire from performances last year due to a neck injury, takes up his new position in April.

Work is currently underway on a new home for Birmingham Conservatoire, the first of its kind to be built in the UK for a generation.

Built on Birmingham City University’s rapidly expanding city centre campus in Eastside the new Conservatoire will feature a concert hall and unrivalled practice facilities.

Mr Lloyd Webber’s arrival in the city will reinforce Birmingham’s long-standing reputation for classical music performance.

He said: “I am honoured and thrilled to be chosen as the new Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire. The state-of-the-art facilities being built within Birmingham City University’s superb campus will be second to none and superior to many, both throughout the UK and beyond. I am especially excited about the fantastic opportunities that will be on offer to our students.”

Widely respected as one of the finest musicians of his generation, Mr Lloyd Webber has become one of the UK’s most successful classical artists.

He was the only classical musician chosen to perform at the Closing Ceremony of the London Olympics in 2012 and last year received the Incorporated Society of Musician’s annual Distinguished Musician Award.

Read about Julian Lloyd Webber selling his Stradivarius here

He replaces the current Principal of the Birmingham Conservatoire, David Saint, who retires in April.

Birmingham City University Vice Chancellor Cliff Allan said: “Julian’s appointment is great news for the Conservatoire as it looks forward to moving to a superb new home, as well as for Birmingham City University and for the whole city – confirming its status in classical music education and performance. Julian has had an extraordinary career as a performer and recording artist, working with some of the great names in music. Just as importantly, he has shown a lifetime passion for musical education, making him the perfect appointment for Birmingham City University.”