A DUNTOCHER singer songwriter has been clocking up the miles as she charts the path to musical success.

Sophie Rogers celebrated another successful year after recently rounding off her latest tour with a gig in Glasgow.

It marked the end of a hectic period for the 25-year-old, which saw her perform dates across the country including Aberdeen, Perth and Inverness. She also travelled to Dublin and Belfast during the autumn tour, bringing her intimate brand of music making to a wider audience.

Sophie, of Farm Road, told the Post: “I had such a great time on tour.

“It’s hard work but every minute is worth it. I have met so many new people and played in some great venues.

“I love playing at home and the crowds are always fantastic but it’s important for me to continue bringing my music to new listeners. That’s what it’s all about.” Flame-haired Sophie, who launched her debut album Two Sides earlier this year, also enjoyed a trip to Canada to showcase her music.

The end result means there is never a dull moment for the musician, who also works as a youth co-ordinator with Glasgow Kelvin College, helping youngsters unearth their artistic interests and determine the best way of achieving them — a subject particularly close to her heart.

“Working with young people is incredibly rewarding for me,” Sophie explained.

“I get the opportunity to help them discover what they really enjoy doing and we work out a plan on how to make it a reality.

“It also means I get to be creative in my workplace, which I think is very important.” Sophie’s own creative endeavours were recognised when she became the first person in Scotland to receive a Gold Arts Award in August, a qualification accredited by Trinity College London that allows participants to grow their leadership and learning skills.

An arts equivalent to the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Sophie underwent an intensive song-writing process before promoting her material to meet the criteria for the award. Last week, she performed at a celebration event for the Arts Award organisation. Though the schedule has been busy, Sophie explained it was important to achieve a good performing and writing balance.

Sophie continued: “This year has been great with the album and the touring, I’ve loved it.

Over the next few months, it’s definitely time to get back into writing and recording.

“I’d love to say I just sit down and think ‘let’s write something’ but it doesn’t always work like that.

“I usually have no shortage of ideas buzzing around but sometimes something comes to you at midnight and you just have to go with it — that’s the creative process.” More information on Sophie Rogers is available by liking Sophie Rogers Music on Facebook, following @_SophieRogers on Twitter or logging on to: www.sophierogersmusic.bigcartel.com/