This week’s Hot Seat features a well-known figure in our local live music scene – Gordon Brandon. Not only has he played his saxophone at a variety of venues, but he also dedicates himself to teaching the next generation everything he knows about music.
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Gordon Brandon. I’m a musician and teacher on the island of St. Maarten, and am originally from Suriname.
How did you get into music?
I started playing music around the age of four with basic music lessons, learning how to sing and play the recorder. And from there on out, I tried multiple instruments such as the drums, guitar and keyboard, eventually ending up with the saxophone.
How long have you been playing the saxophone?
I started playing the saxophone around the age of 11, learning and studying classical music until I switched over to pop and jazz.
What is your favourite thing about your profession?
My favourite thing about my profession is the joy and happiness it brings – not only to myself, but also to those for whom I perform. Music is liberating and it always brings me great joy to see the smiles whenever I play for others.
Where do you find inspiration?
My inspiration comes from a pursuit of happiness. I didn't become a professional musician because of a singular pursuit towards it. I enjoyed playing music so much that I ultimately switched careers from studying engineering to go and do what I enjoyed most at the time – playing music.
What can we expect from you this year?
I’m currently a member of the band Sugar Apple on the island, and we’re working on many projects which will be coming out soon.
What is your favourite song of all time to perform?
I honestly have many favourite songs because I love listening to a diverse mix of musical genres – from jazz to pop, Latin, R&B, soca and reggae.
At which venues do you currently play?
I perform at a variety of places on the island. Currently, I mostly play at private parties and such, due to it being low season; but I still play at Pineapple Pete every Saturday.
What would you advise your younger self, or other people looking to get into a similar profession?
My advice to anyone looking to get into music is to enjoy the process along the way. Happiness is a jewel to be treasured and should always be a top priority no matter which road you choose to walk in life. Music is life; music is happiness. Enjoy music in whichever way you like.
