Multi-genre entertainer, singer and songwriter Peetron Thomas has officially graduated from the ABCAS Harrison Centre with a Diploma in Music Production, following two years of study and practical training.
Thomas says the achievement marks an important milestone in his musical journey and the beginning of a new chapter focused on music education, production, youth development and contributing to the continued growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s creative industries.
He intends to use the knowledge and practical experience gained throughout the programme to further develop his career while contributing to the nation’s musical and cultural landscape, with aspirations of expanding his work regionally and internationally.
Thomas is also strongly advocating for aspiring singers, songwriters, artistes, producers and others interested in the music and entertainment industries to consider enrolling in the Music Production course offered at the ABCAS Harrison Centre.
Reflecting on his own two-year experience, Thomas says the programme provided valuable technical, creative and practical knowledge that can assist individuals seeking to begin or strengthen their careers in music.
He believes the training can also benefit persons involved in marketing, entertainment and other areas of the creative sector who want to gain a broader understanding of music production and the industry surrounding it.
“Once you believe in yourself, you can achieve it. Just keep on trying. Don’t stop believing. Work hard every day and you will see your dreams become reality.
,” Thomas said.
Thomas is already preparing to put his training to further use through the recently approved 780 Music Mode: Promoting Music Education and Production Programme at the National Public Library.
The name 780 Music Mode draws inspiration from the Dewey Decimal Classification, where the 780 category represents music.
The programme will operate under the theme “A Lifetime of Learning, A World of Music” and the motto “Learn, Play, Create, Produce.”
According to Thomas, 780 Music Mode is being developed as a long-lasting and continuous programme rather than a one-time initiative, creating opportunities for music education across different generations.
Kids Music Mode will cater to children ages 4 to 12 on Mondays at 3:30 p.m. in the Youth Services Department of the National Public Library.
Teen Music Mode will cater to young people ages 13 to 18 on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. in the Teen Space, Lower Jarvis Reading Room.
The programme will also include Senior Adult Music Mode, catering to persons 50 and older on selected days in the Convent Room.
Participants will explore musical fundamentals, rhythm, melody, singing, songwriting, musicianship, recording and music production through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
No previous musical experience is required, with participants encouraged to come ready to learn, create and make music.
Thomas will serve as facilitator of the programme, which promotes the message: “Where learning meets the love of music at the National Public Library.”
A Growing Interest in Music Education
Following the completion of his diploma, Thomas says he is seeking to venture further into the educational field, particularly through teaching music and music production.
He hopes to combine his experience as a singer, songwriter, multi-genre entertainer and music production graduate with education, helping children, teenagers, adults and aspiring creatives discover and develop their musical abilities.
Thomas sees 780 Music Mode as an important step in that direction and hopes the programme can continue to grow and become a lasting avenue for music education and creative development.
The initiative also complements his existing youth and community development work through Peetron Movement International, Peetron Music and the Work Fu Um initiatives.
His recent youth development work has included the Work Fu Um Summer Camp, while preparations are underway for the second year of the Work Fu Um Christmas Camp.
More Youth and Music Development Projects Ahead
Thomas says his plans for music and youth development extend beyond 780 Music Mode.
He revealed that proposals are being prepared for submission to the Minister responsible for Creative Industries regarding a major youth development project, along with two additional music development initiatives.
Thomas says he cannot disclose the details to the media at this stage but indicated that further information will be shared as the proposed initiatives move closer to their official launches.
He says the projects form part of his broader vision of using music, culture, education and youth development to create opportunities while contributing to Antigua and Barbuda’s creative sector.
Thomas hopes his newly acquired qualification, combined with his experience in entertainment, media and community development, will allow him to continue developing projects that can make a lasting contribution to the nation.
Thomas Credits Those Behind His Journey
Thomas paid special tribute to his mother, Brenda (Kharol) Thomas, thanking her for always believing in him and supporting his ambitions throughout his journey.
He also expressed gratitude to his friends and supporters, as well as the management and staff of the National Public Library, where he currently works, for their continued encouragement.
As part of his Music Production programme, Thomas completed his internship with Pointville Communications, gaining practical experience through PBN TV and Pointe FM.
He gave special recognition to his internship trainers, Dr. Eldean Eudelle and Jeremiah Toussaint, for their guidance, mentorship and contribution to his professional development.
Thomas also extended appreciation to the management and staff of the ABCAS Harrison Centre, particularly his lecturers Anderson Jacobs and Gavin Christopher, whom he credits with playing an important role in strengthening his abilities and helping to shape the music practitioner and entertainer he is today.
For Thomas, earning his Diploma in Music Production is not the end of the journey, but another foundation from which to build.
With 780 Music Mode and several other projects on the horizon, he says his focus is now on continuing his development as an entertainer, music practitioner and educator while using his training and experience to advance music education and development in Antigua and Barbuda and broaden his impact regionally and internationally.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Peetron Thomas Earns Diploma in Music Production.