-Kevin Arthur wants to pass on his musical talent to the next generation

By Tamara Alves

FASCINATED by the whimsical tunes of a trumpet, Kevin Arthur, a part-time musician, fell passionately in love with music at the age of 17.

Now in his early 40s, and serving as a police officer, Arthur has deepened his relationship with the brass instrument, honing his skills through dedication and practice.

In a recent interview with the Buzz, the local musician shared his journey of becoming a household name in his Enmore, East Coast Demerara Community, where he regularly performs at churches and private events.

And although his career requires him to be on the clock, he has remained committed to his musical pursuits, viewing his craft as not a mere hobby but as a way to give back to his community.

He disclosed to the Buzz his plans of sharing his knowledge and passion with other aspiring musicians, hoping to inspire the next generation of talent locally.

“I want to teach children music,” Kevin expressed earnestly. “But it’s important to have discipline. Without it, learning just doesn’t stick.”

When asked about his musical influences, he referenced locally rooted sounds with a particular knack for the jazz scene in Guyana.

He recalled his introduction to music and working closely with several mentors from his home village. “I was taught by several persons including Vanessa Stuart- Arthur who later became my wife. I also had a lot of inspiration too numerous to mention.”

His mentors, he noted have shaped his sound in a distinct way, pushing him to reflect on the cultural and musical heritage of his surroundings.

He highlighted the lively and mixed music scene that sets his homeland apart.

From the pulsating rhythms of soca and reggae to the smooth melodies of jazz and calypso, Guyana’s musical landscape is as diverse as its people, offering endless opportunities for creative expression.

However, Kevin acknowledges that pursuing a career in music in Guyana comes with its challenges.

Limited resources and opportunities can make it difficult to break into the industry, but his perseverance and passion have allowed him to overcome these obstacles, carving out a niche for himself in the local music scene.

Looking to the future, Kevin is optimistic about the evolution of music in Guyana. He envisions a thriving community of artistes and musicians pushing boundaries and exploring new genres, with himself playing a key role in shaping the cultural landscape.

And in some brief words of encouragement, Kevin urged aspiring musicians to embrace their passions wholeheartedly, and to never lose sight of their dreams.