Welcoming Cheryl Davis, new Instrument Loan Scheme Programme Manager

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Cheryl Davis as our new Instrument Loan Scheme Programme Manager, strengthening our commitment to supporting musicians at every stage of their journey. 

Cheryl brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for music education and access. In her new role, she will oversee the development and delivery of the instrument loans programme, helping ensure that high-quality instruments are available to those who need them most. 

We caught up with Cheryl to learn more about her background, inspirations and plans for the future. 

Where were you before joining Benslow? 
I have had several different roles within the music industry including in artist management looking after high-profile soloists and conductors. I’ve worked in two chamber orchestras where I gained experience in concert management and in curating and delivering a range of participation projects spanning early years, schools and healthcare settings. 

What are you most excited about in your new role? 
I’m hugely excited to be a part of many students’ musical journey and to be able to watch them leave the building with a beautiful instrument and a smile on their face. 

Tell us about a favourite musical memory. 
Last night of the Proms – amazing to see so many people celebrating the joy of music. 

What drew you to Benslow? 
I’m aware how increasingly challenging it is for young people to access good quality music tuition, ensemble opportunities and instruments. Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme works hard to match beautiful instruments to young musicians, whatever their personal circumstances – that just felt like somewhere that I wanted to be.  

Tell us about the loan scheme team,  what you’re all working on and the difference it can make. 
There are three of us in the team and each of our roles are vital to the smooth running of the loan scheme. Annette has been at Benslow for 14 years and has watched the scheme develop, including the move to our new building and has seen many young musicians flourish. Annette manages the day to day finances, enquiries, helps with instrument trial appointments, and looks after borrowers who are returning instruments. 

Marco is our luthier and has been at Benslow for almost as long as Annette. Marco manages our workshop and takes care of all our precious instruments, both in the storeroom and those that are out on loan. He is onsite to provide annual servicing for instruments and here to call on if ever there is a repair that is needed. 

I am currently reviewing all our processes and looking at how we can make the loan scheme as accessible as possible for young musicians. Together, we are hoping to be able to increase the number and broaden the range of instruments we have available. We aim to play a part in nurturing talent and open up possibilities for students from all backgrounds so that affording a good quality instrument is no longer a barrier.

Cheryl’s appointment is another exciting step forward for Benslow Music as we continue to develop opportunities for musicians through access, learning, and community. 

Cheryl said: I’m absolutely thrilled to have joined the dedicated team at Benslow and to have the opportunity to play just a small part in turning the musical journey of young people into an exciting adventure. 

Dr Uchenna Ngwe, Head of Programmes at Benslow said, “I am delighted to welcome Cheryl to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme team, and I’m really looking forward to her bringing her fresh ideas on board as we continue to develop the scheme. Together with Anette and Marco, Cheryl will work to provide young, talented musicians with access to the high-quality instruments they need to develop and grow.”

To find out more about the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, click here.