MADONNA’S former keyboard player has inspired young Darlington musicians.

Marcus Brown gave a speech for students of the Northern School of Contemporary Music (NSCM) last week.

The talented musician spent more than eight years on the road with global superstar Madonna and has also worked with singer Seal, the Spice Girls and Celine Dion.

During two student performance evenings held in Darlington recently, Mr Brown shared anecdotes of life on the road and shared the secrets of his success with an enthusiastic crowd.

He was invited to speak at the events ahead of taking up a new role as music teacher at the NSCM.

Mr Brown will soon begin tutoring students in keyboard playing and studio production skills.

He was invited to get involved with the popular school by old friend and former bandmate, Stuart Ellerton.

Mr Ellerton, director of NSCM, said: “We go back years and grew up together in bands.

“He went off and worked with all of those acts while I stayed and became director of this school.

“It’s been amazing to see him come back to do this motivational speech and inspire students as to how wonderful the music industry can be.

“There are so many possibilities that can be achieved through hard work and practice.”

For more information about NSCM, visit thenscm.co.uk.