Billy Marrows - Penelope (in support of World Child Cancer) (2024)

Recorded as a surprise for Penny whilst she was terminally ill, the album features Billy’s new chamber jazz group, Grande Família, both as a 12 piece ensemble and in smaller combinations, interspersed with intimate solo guitar vignettes. It includes one of Penny’s nephews on bass, great-niece on flute and Billy’s girlfriend Teresa on viola, alongside eight musicians special to Billy.

In March 2023 Penny was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Billy, Teresa and his cousins performed for her at a family gathering in April. She loved it, so Billy decided to make this charity album as a surprise for her, generously supported by friends and family. Penny realised how fortunate she was to have access to such good cancer care, compared to others around the world, so they chose to raise money for World Child Cancer, a charity that helps children to overcome cancer in countries where it is needed the most. Penny was an artist and the album and single artworks showcase her striking paintings.