Andrew Lloyd Webber’s cellist brother Julian has announced he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer after returning to performing after 12 years absence
The brother of Andrew Lloyd Webber has revealed he has been diagnosed with cancer. Julian, 75, confirmed he will receive treatment after doctors told him he had prostate cancer.
The cellist performed a birthday charity gala on Tuesday as he turned 75. The appearance marked his return to performing after 12 years out through injury. He performed at Wigmore Hall and revealed his health woes shortly after. He admitted he had to make his diagnosis public as he didn’t want to “disappoint anyone”.
In a statement, the musician said: “I did not want to let anyone down, so I kept my diagnosis secret until after my birthday concert, but now I need to begin treatment as soon as possible. I am encouraged by the expectations of the medical team and look forward to making a full recovery.”
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He went on: “I am not intending to cancel engagements and I won’t comment any further on this matter until after the treatment.”
Julian had taken a step back from performing over a decade ago following a herniated disc that had been caused by the repeated bowing action of his right arm. It left him fearing he would never play again on stage.
But last year, after selling his instrument, he revealed he was learning to play it again. And he admitted his immediate struggle. Speaking to the Observer at the time, he said: “I tried a whole piece, but quickly realised it was not going to work.
“I had to build up to it. So I did 15 minutes, then half an hour. Then I managed an hour. Now I can’t wait for the concert. I just hope I can do it.”
In 2021, Julian received an OBE for his services to music. He was on an impressive list with the likes of Lulu, Arlene Phillips and Prue Leith.
He also recently spoke about his close bond to brother Andrew. Sunday Times shared an extract from his Bows and Arrows book explaining their closeness from childhood.
He said in the text: “As children we developed an entire make-believe world that centred around our toy theatre, the Harrington Pavilion. Made of bricks and wooden blocks, and papered with fabric samples, it featured a magnificent revolving stage, constructed from an old record turntable. Performances were staged with surprising frequency.
“Friends, family and unsuspecting guests would be dragged in to hear Andrew’s latest musical while we both chipped in to operate the lighting and ‘cast’ of toy soldiers. There was even a plush crimson curtain.”
The brothers’ career choices in classical music were heavily influenced by their father. Dad William is said to have provided the pair with a strong shared musical foundation. The siblings often worked on projects together over the years.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Macmillan Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer UK.
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