Roger had been playing the piano since he was aged 6, and the organ since he was 12. He gained his diploma in organ playing at the London College of Music while still in his teens. He was a member of the music team at Saltisford Church, Warwick, and had been actively playing, singing, and conducting in the local amateur music world for many years.
In the past, he has worked with Spa Opera,
and had frequently been asked to accompany soloists (vocal and instrumental) in activities such as exams, recitals, shows, workshops and the Leamington Competitive Music Festival.
The choir were very sad to learn that Roger passed away peacefully on Sunday 17th May 2026, at the Heathcote Rehabilitation Hospital, Whitnash.
VV members will remember Roger with great affection having been our accompanist from 2010 to spring 2025, when ill health forced him to stop playing.
As well as being a wonderful pianist, organist and tenor, Roger was a genuinely lovely man. He was well known on the local music scene and will be greatly missed by so many. We offer our sincere condolences to his sister, Marion and his wider family.
Rest in Peace, Roger, and thank you for your service to Village Voices.
Below are some recordings of Roger accompanying the choir in 2023 and 2024:
Wind Beneath My Wings by Harry Henley & Jeff Soilbar Arr. Roger Emerson
Roses of Pickardy lyrics by Fred E. Weatherley music Haydn Wood arr. Peter Irvine
Can You Feel The Love Tonight Music Elton John, Lyrics Tim Rice Arr. Keith Christopher
When I’m 64 by John Lennon & Paul McCartney
Love Changes Everything Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics by Don Black and Charles Hart arr. Ed Lojeski
Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen Arr. Roger Emerson