TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular Stourbridge musician, teacher and performer who has died at the age of 56.

Instrumental teacher and folk performer Ian Chamberlain, who played with a ceilidh band and for traditional dancers as well as teaching borough youngsters to play the violin and viola, suffered a heart attack and passed away last Thursday (April 7) at Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, where he had been receiving treatment for a kidney condition.

Mr Chamberlain, who lived in Wollaston with his partner Elaine, had worked as a teacher for Dudley Music Services (latterly Dudley Performing Arts) since 1981.

Ill health led to early retirement in 2011 but he remained an active performer and was lead musician and a former Squire of Bedcote Morris in Stourbridge, which he co-founded in 1991.

He was also musical director of Wytchwood Border Morris in Kidderminster and a member of the Bedcote Ceilidh Band.

Quinton-born Mr Chamberlain gained a degree in Theology at Sheffield University before moving to Dudley to begin his 30-year career in music education - during which he helped countless young people to develop an interest in music.

Former Dudley Music Services colleague Keith Horsfall, chairman of Dudley Arts Council, said: “There are literally thousands of young people and their families in our area and beyond whose lives were touched by Ian.

"He was an extremely popular and dedicated teacher and he took that dedication into becoming perhaps the most significant local figure in the current traditional music scene.

"We have lost a friend and an inspiration. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts go out to those closest to him, particularly Elaine and his son James.”

As well as teaching youngsters to play the violin and viola - Mr Chamberlain also played the piano, organ and accordion.

Chris Burton, current Squire of Bedcote Morris, said: “Ian’s contribution to music has been immense – as a performer, teacher and composer.

"His tunes are heard up and down the country and shared between sides. He had an amazing memory for music and dances and was always glad to help others in their performance.

“Ian was particularly proud to have been able to organise last year’s inaugural Stourbridge Day of Dance, which saw around 100 dancers perform around the town.

"We would like this year’s event on Saturday May 21 to act as a tribute to our friend and a true great of the folk scene.”

Mr Chamberlain's funeral will be held at Gornal Wood Crematorium on Thursday April 28 at 2.10pm followed by a reception at Himley Cricket Club.

Relatives have requested family flowers only - and there will be a collection for Diabetes UK.