JA’VAUGHN EMMANUEL RAMSAY is a graduate of The University of Trinidad and Tobago’s (UTT) Bachelor of Fine Arts in the Performing Arts with specialisation in Music. The talented musician and Musical Director of the Trinidad and Tobago Paramilitary Police Youth Club gives an account of his experience as a student at the national University:

Give us a brief history of your academic and professional background.

I completed my studies at Trinity College (Moka) in 2015 and later achieved multiple certificates in the field of music. I am also a past cadet of the Trinity Platoon where I attained the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer Class Two with star four qualification, and later received the appointment of Battalion Drill Sergeant of the First Infantry Battalion of the Trinidad and Tobago Cadet Force.

From 2011 to 2018, I was a member of Success Stars Pan Sounds, competing in multiple Panorama competitions with winning titles, and touring Mexico and Cuba. I have also performed with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra, Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service Steel Orchestra, Simple Song Steel Orchestra and Tunapuna Tipica Steel Orchestra, among others. Over the years, I have also participated in the Trinidad and Tobago Music Festival and the Prime Minister’s Best Village competitions, and performed for Heads of State and dignitaries.

My parents are steelpan players who started me on my musical journey when I was a toddler, and as a result I have become well versed on the steelpan, trumpet, drums, and can arrange and compose my own music.

I serve my community as a member of the Tunapuna Youth Desk, and as Music Tutor for its Home Work Centre Initiative, which functions under the Member of Parliament for Tunapuna/Piarco, Minister Esmond Forde. I am also a member of the D’abadie/O’Meara Youth League under its Member of Parliament, Minister Lisa Morris Julian.

What influenced your decision to pursue this programme at UTT?

Being a musician with high expectations, I wanted to explore and advance my musical abilities which directed me to The Academy for Performing Arts. Throughout my time at UTT, I learnt a lot about professionalism, always keeping a high standard, going above and beyond the call for duty and a lot about the outside world, as it relates to performing and the musical industries. My studies pushed and allowed me to assist my mom, with forming the first ever youth paramilitary marching steel orchestra.

How has being a graduate of UTT assisted your overall professional experience and development?

Since graduating, I have had multiple recommendations from various organisations and outlets. Being able to do a job from raw talent and experience is one thing, having an official certification is a different ball game by itself. You are looked at with high standards, high expectations and someone who can surely get the job done.

I have also been requested to assist CSEC level Music students at Aranguez North Secondary School, Malabar Secondary School and Arima North Secondary School. Studying at UTT opened me up to many teaching methods for various learning outcomes which has made all these achievements both possible and successful.

What words of advice do you have for those wishing to pursue this line of study at UTT?

 I would advise everyone to take this opportunity that the University offers to assist in bettering your craft and becoming an all-round musician.