The trumpet—an instrument of precision, depth, and complexity—remains one of the most challenging to master. Yet, Velrose Pereira, a skilled trumpeter, singer, and songwriter, has not only embraced its demands but has also become a celebrated figure in Goa’s evolving music scene. With her commanding presence, musical diversity, and tireless pursuit of growth, Velrose exemplifies the transformative power of music.
A Global Journey Rooted in Goa
Born in Goa but raised in Muscat, Oman, Velrose’s connection to her roots has always been a powerful force in her life. “My maternal grandmother played a vital role in fostering my love for Goa and Konkani. The time spent with her in Goa left an indelible mark on me,” she shares. Despite spending her formative years in Oman, her love for Goa never faded—making it a home that would continually inspire her music.
Velrose’s journey into the world of music began under the watchful guidance of her father, Avers Pereira, a prominent figure in the Goan Tiatrist scene. Avers played an integral role in shaping Velrose’s musical path, introducing her to the rich world of Goan theatre and music. He performed alongside some of the most iconic figures in the industry, such as the late Alfred & Rita Rose, Prince Jacob, and the late H. Britton, whose influence helped her understand the power of music beyond technique.
The Trumpet: A Path Less Taken
When asked about her decision to pick the trumpet, Velrose reflects on her father’s guiding words: “He always encouraged me to take the road less traveled, to embrace greater life experiences and lessons. That could very well explain why I was drawn to the trumpet,” she explains. True to her father’s advice, Velrose did not opt for the easier route. Instead, she embraced the challenges of an instrument that requires immense skill, perseverance, and determination.
For Velrose, the trumpet’s significance extends beyond its technical difficulty. It holds a unique place in Goan musical heritage, and she believes it is one of the most “beautiful and romantic instruments.” Holding the trumpet, she says, is an empowering experience, and as a woman navigating the male-dominated world of brass instruments, she deeply admires those who venture into this demanding art. In addition to the trumpet, Velrose is proficient in several other instruments, including the keyboard, baritone, and guitar, showcasing her versatility as a musician.
A Multifaceted Musician: Trumpeter, Singer, and Songwriter
While Velrose is most widely known for her trumpet skills, she is also an accomplished singer and songwriter. For her, music serves as both a passion and a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to express her deepest emotions. “Writing songs allows me to connect with my inner self, while singing provides me with a platform to share my perspective with others,” she says.
Music, according to Velrose, is not just an art form; it’s an ongoing journey of growth and learning. “Every musician can relate to the fact that music is not a destination, but rather an experience that continuously evolves. It’s more than a profession; it’s a life journey,” she notes. Her humility and relentless drive to push her boundaries are what fuel her musical evolution.
The Joys and Challenges of Live Performances
Though performing live brings immense joy, Velrose acknowledges that it is not without its anxieties. “There are moments when I feel nervous before stepping onto the stage, and that’s perfectly normal,” she confesses. However, despite these jitters, performing with the trumpet remains one of her greatest joys. “The moment I start playing, everything falls into place,” she says, describing the feeling of connecting with an audience through her music.
As a woman in the brass music industry—a realm traditionally dominated by men—Velrose has faced her share of challenges. “It’s inevitable that I’ve been compared to male trumpeters. One of the most common critiques is that women can’t play as well as men,” she says. However, Velrose remains undeterred by such comparisons, emphasizing that music transcends gender. “Music is about expression, passion, and skill. It’s not about who you are, but how you express yourself,” she explains.
She adds that growth and learning never stop, and it’s this belief that has been integral to her success. “Every day, I work to improve my craft, and I never stop learning. Each note, each performance, is an opportunity to grow,” Velrose affirms.
Wisdom for Aspiring Musicians
For aspiring musicians, particularly women navigating the music industry, Velrose has a simple but powerful message: “One day, all the hard work, sleepless nights, and sacrifices will be worth it. Life is full of struggles and setbacks, but they should never deter you from following your dreams.”
Her journey serves as proof that passion, perseverance, and a clear vision can lead to success, regardless of the obstacles. Yet, she also emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process. “Music is a lifelong learning experience. I’ve come to understand that it’s not just about perfection but enjoying the journey. Mastering the basics is essential, but so is embracing each moment of learning,” she says.
Remaining Grounded in the Face of Success
Despite her numerous accomplishments, Velrose remains deeply grounded. “I still feel I have a long way to go before I can say, ‘I made it,’” she reflects. Her humility, resilience, and constant drive to evolve set her apart as not just a musician, but a true artist. “Every performance, every song I write, is another step in my musical journey. I’m always striving to improve,” she says.
For Velrose, success is not about achieving perfection but about the continuous process of becoming better with each day. “It’s about growth—learning, evolving, and staying true to yourself,” she explains.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Velrose Pereira’s career continues to flourish, her talent and dedication have earned her a loyal following both in Goa and globally. Through her social media presence, she has captured the hearts of fans who admire her trumpet covers and original compositions. Velrose’s ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth has set her apart as an artist with a bright future.
Her story serves as an inspiration for all aspiring musicians, especially women who are often underrepresented in certain areas of the industry. Through her resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion, Velrose is poised to leave a lasting mark on the global music scene. With each performance, every composition, and every new project, she continues to redefine what it means to be an artist.
Velrose Pereira’s journey is far from over. It is a story of passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the craft of music. As she continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, the future is filled with limitless potential for this extraordinary Goan trumpeter.
