TAMPA, Fla. — Rebecca Penneys, 78, started playing the piano at age three.
The instrument is like home for Penneys.
So when Penneys lost hers in the 2024 hurricane season, she played. And when she got her cancer diagnosis in the same year, she played. Now in recovery and in a new home, she plays.
Her piano festival at the University of South Florida is in its 13th year, and expanding out from its home there are pop-up concerts in different parts of the Bay area.
“You know, we had 245 applications from 25 countries,” said Penneys.
They chose 40 students, and Penneys is ready for them, along with talents like program assistant Joy Thurmon.
Thurmon says the greatest moments are when a student surpasses their own expectations
“You are like, ‘Yay! High five!’ That’s teaching them that perseverance for something they really love is worth it.”
In addition to the festival, Penneys also heads up a USF Music Fund, removing hurdles for would-be students and career musicians.
“So in other words they can realize their potential,” said Pennys.
It’s part of her legacy as a benefactor and survivor here.
Virginia Johnson
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