Wilfred Peters, 1931 – 2010

Prominent among Belizean musicians that span the 20th and 21st centuries is Wilfred Peters, popularly known as “Mr. Peters.” Born on April 15, 1931, his accomplishment in popularizing and embodying Bruk Dong rhythms as a true Belize staple deservedly earned him a state funeral when he passed on June 9, 2010.

Having learned to play the accordion from his father at the age of seven Wilfred grew up on the family farm at Gracie Rock on the Sibun River. The influence for his music most likely came from the loggers who visited his parents’ home, and he converted the mahogany camp stories into lyrics. His songs in subsequent years told of old traditions and people, and brought out the humor in country living.

In his early life Wilfred Peters earned about $5.00 a day as a construction worker in Belize City. This was subsidized by his aptitude in playing the accordion, and along with two friends who played the guitar and drums they combined their talents and formed a trio which was named “The Mahogany Chips.” They earned small amounts of money by playing traditional Belize Bruk Dong music at parties and dances, and very soon the sounds caught on to the extent that more persons were added and the group changed its name to the “Boom and Chime.”

Over time Mr. Peters gave Belize a genre to call its own as he became uncontested on his accordion, and his band brought nothing but energy, passion and charisma at any venue it played. He literally toured the world embodying Kriol culture, rhythm and spirit. Apart from performing all over the Caribbean Mr. Peters played on stages in Europe, the United States and Mexico. In Canada he performed along with other musicians from all over the world in a festival which specialized in accordions.

Going back to as far as 1976 the “Boom and Chime” has become a household phrase, and has come a long way from the late night bramming of the past to the popularity it has achieved today. Mr. Peters produced many records to ensure some permanency of the sounds, and it is heartening to see that Wilfred Junior is carrying on the legacy of his father to foster and preserve the tradition.