Young saxophonist Lucas Sheopaul an aspiring music professor

– thanks upbringing of Guyanese father for his mentorship

Born on March 25, 2009 to Guyanese parentage, Lucas Sheopaul also known as “ls.on.sax” is making a name for himself in the music industry in Canada, as one of the talented saxophonists of modern times.
He is the only son of Khus from Devonshire Castle, Essequibo Coast, Region Two and his mother, a Canadian citizen, of Ajax, Ontario, Canada.
He is a Grade 10 student at J. Clarke Richardson, a secondary school in Ajax, Ontario, and hopes one day to become a music professor at the University of Toronto, where he can impart his love for the art form to others.
Apart from playing various types of saxophones, he is also quite versed in playing the dholak, tabla, dhantal, harmonium, tassa, bass drum, jhaal, flute, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, baritone/euphonium, tuba, guitar, electric guitar, piano and steel pan.
His favourites, however, are the dholak, tassa, and alto/tenor sax. The youngster developed a love for musical instruments after sitting and listening to his father play the dholak. In fact, his father is his role model, along with his two grandfathers.
“After listening to my dad from a young age, I fell in love with the sounds, and told myself that I wanted to keep the family legacy going as I get older. I feel that I can express myself better on my saxophone with my creative and unique soloing style,” the teenager told Guyana Times.
Presently, he plays with the JCR Jazz and the JCR Concert Bands. In addition, he plays with the Take 6 Jazz Combo, Mystic Rhythms Tassa Group. He is slated to perform alongside some big stars at the Guyana Baboo 30th Anniversary celebrations in Canada, on May 10, 2025.
Although a lover of musical instruments, he also sings Bhajans and Chutney, while trying out some Soca and Dancehall at times.
“I have performed at a number of shows across Canada, and the support has been amazing… When I was younger, I was definitely anxious before any performance, but now that I have been playing and performing very often, so I do not get anxious anymore.”
As he aspires to become one of the best saxophonists, his grades at school take precedence over anything else. “I make sure that my school is before all of my other hobbies. I also make sure that I am at my rehearsals so I have as much time with my band directors as possible,” he said.
In making sure he balances school and his co-curricular activities his parents constantly keep him in check.
As it relates to his musical journey, he intends to build relationships with older and more knowledgeable musicians. “I am still quite young, and I am sure that with the push and support from the right people, I will be successful in my musical career… I also want to incorporate my skills and their guidance into fulfilling my dreams, while at the same time, try to influence my peers in a positive way… I am also trying my best to show my peers how much the art of music can change, improve and influence life,” he revealed.
On this note, he expressed gratitude to his parents, who have been by his side, but more importantly, his father, who saw the spark of love for music in him, and who helped kick start his musical journey.
“Secondly, to Rish, Arune and Dylan from the Mystic Rhythms Tassa Group, whom I have had the pleasure of performing alongside; thank you. I also want to recognise my music teacher and one of my biggest music mentors, Tim Watson and my biggest supporter, my sister,” he expressed.
In ten years, Lucas will be 26 years old, and sees himself expanding his career as a musical educator while still performing for large audiences. As a youngster whose favourite subjects are Math and Music, he urged teens who would want a career in music to follow their dreams.
“Listen to what the music is telling you, it will be the right path. Stay focussed; stay away from drugs, and most importantly [stay away] from persons who would keep you astray,” he advised.
In his leisure time, Lucas enjoys composing and arranging music, participating in track and field events at school, deejaying and, as any young boy, playing video games. His favourite dish is pumpkin and roti, and he loves anything blue.
Some of his most listened to singers include Terry Gajraj, Rakesh Yankaran, Machel Montano, Yung Bredda and Vybz Kartel.