Laura Penrose

Laura Penrose is the dynamic and visionary owner of Nick Rail Music, a prominent chain of seven music store locations across Southern California. In 2019, she purchased the business from its beloved founder, Nick Rail, just months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With unwavering determination and the support of her husband, Tom, Laura navigated the immense challenges of that period while steadfastly growing the company and deepening its ties to the music community. A lifelong music enthusiast, Laura began playing piano at age four, later becoming a pit orchestra captain and touring choir member, performing in Paris. She earned a music business degree and gained early industry experience at Summerhays Music, later serving as West Coast Regional Sales Manager for Maple String Company. Fulfilling her dream of store ownership, Laura sees every victory—big or small—as part of that dream realized. She credits much of her success to collaboration, networking, and cultivating meaningful relationships within the music products industry.