Music
An East Coast Tradition
Since moving from Ontario to Nova Scotia four years ago, I’ve been continually amazed by the music culture here. The roots run deep — from Irish and Scottish Celtic music, traditional fiddling, and sea shanties, to the indigenous traditions of Mi’kmaq music and dance, and the Acadian cultural blend. The East Coast is truly unique in how music carries history and community forward.
My Journey into Music
I picked up the guitar at 38, and it quickly became one of my greatest joys. My tastes are wide-ranging — rock & roll, folk, blues, jazz (60s–00s), classic hits, and original songwriting. I love to experiment and mix influences, keeping performances fresh and engaging.
Living on Nova Scotia’s South Shore has drawn me into community through music. In the summer of 2022, a casual jam session led to the formation of a band, and we played a few high-energy gigs.
By March 2023, I was invited to join The Shantymen of Mahone Bay, diving into the tradition of sea shanties — learning harmonies, exploring musical history, and sharing the energy of these work songs of the past.
Creating Spaces for Music
In the fall of 2024, I was asked to host an Open Mic at Saltbox Brewing in Mahone Bay. The response was incredible — bringing together performers of all levels and creating a supportive community. In August 2025, we hosted the inaugural Open Mic Festival at Lightship Brewing Company, a six-hour showcase featuring nearly 20 performers against the backdrop of Lunenburg Harbour.
Lightship Open Mic Festival August 2025
Photos: Katie Drake 2025
Songwriting & Collaboration
As a songwriter, I’m always drawn to the storytellers — artists, poets, and creatives who weave words and melody into imagery and feeling. I believe there’s a soul to music that resonates with all of us. I’m also happy to collaborate or support fellow musicians with business and marketing tips.
I see this as just the start — a chance to grow as a songwriter, deepen my craft, and become even more involved in this vibrant East Coast music community. Whether it’s collaborating on new material, performing, or hosting events, I’m excited to keep learning and sharing through music.
If you’re interested in connecting, collaborating, booking me to host or perform, or even attending one of our local Open Mic Nights — I’d love to hear from you.
Feature Performers & Sponsors
The Shantymen of Mahone Bay
“Kevin has a real talent for bringing people together and allowing them to feel acknowledged. Everyone is not only welcome at his open-mic events but also encouraged to participate, no matter their musical skill level. His strengths of hospitality, organization, and motivation are evident at these popular gatherings.”
Shelah Allen - Performer & Audience Member
“Kevin is great guy to work with - he respects fellow musicians of all ilks and tries hard to please folks, clearly reflected by the joyful camaraderie witnessed at any of his events."
Maurice (Mo) Gave - Musician
“He brings warmth and humor that turn a performance into a true community experience. Kind, approachable, and always supportive—Kevin genuinely cares about people and music.”
Robert Wilk - Musician
“I was playing guitar and singing for the first time in thirty years. I was very nervous and not sure if I was going to play. Kevin created an atmosphere where we all felt comfortable and accepting of all of our musical abilities great or small. It was and continues to be a wonderful experience for me and everyone else.”
Sam Collicutt - Musician
“Kevin is a warm and welcoming host and musician. He is genuinely interested in the musician, making sure we were comfortable and ready.”
Victoria Pearl (Conrad) - Musician
“It's a talent Tsunami! Kevin Boon takes the helm as host- bringing his signature blend of sharp wit and smooth delivery, with a dash of delightful troublemaking. ”
Joanne Purchase-Renaud - Audience Member
