I have had the pleasure of knowing Penny Rogers for the past six years, both as a fellow musician in the Lyric Chamber Orchestra and through the many chamber music performances in which we have played together. During that time, I have also had the privilege of mentoring Penny as she has increasingly been able to devote more of her life to music, wellbeing, and to developing her considerable skills as a cellist.
Penny is a highly sought-after cellist in Devon, and with good reason. She brings a beautiful, warm sound to her playing, together with an exceptional level of commitment. Whatever she is asked to do, Penny gives it her full attention and energy. She is dependable, thoughtful and wonderfully supportive of the musicians around her.
What makes Penny particularly special, however, is the breadth of experience she brings to her music. Her considerable life skills, combined with her natural musicality, make her a perceptive, sensitive and engaging colleague. She listens — not only musically, but to people — and this quality is enormously valuable in any ensemble or professional environment.
It has also been a genuine pleasure to watch Penny develop as a cellist. She approaches new and sometimes challenging technical demands with intelligence, determination and curiosity. She has a brilliant mind, an excellent sense of humour and, importantly, the ability to embrace challenges positively rather than shy away from them.
Alongside her musical abilities, Penny brings significant knowledge and understanding of health and safety. I believe her experience as a musician gives her an additional and particularly valuable perspective in this area. She understands the practical realities musicians face and is able to approach situations with sensitivity, empathy and sound judgement.
Penny is someone who combines professionalism with warmth, intelligence with humour, and musical sensitivity with a genuine concern for the wellbeing of others.
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending her. She would bring commitment, insight, sensitivity and a wealth of experience to any role or organisation fortunate enough to have her.
