Shylome: 32 Years Old, a Guitar, and a Dream Without Borders

Shylome, a 32-year-old musician based in Montreal, embodies a generation of artists who dare to believe in their dreams. Growing up surrounded by his mother's Hindustani and Carnatic ragas and his father's rock cassettes, music was never just a hobby for him; it was his calling. He recalls, "Music is not just my passion; it's my way of life, my vocation."

Born in Mahébourg, Shylome grew up in a home where musical genres blended seamlessly. His mother's melodious training sessions filled the living room, while his father's eclectic taste brought legends like Elvis and Stevie Wonder to their dining table. "I never knew silence," he laughs, recalling how music surrounded him from dawn till dusk.

Initially, he dreamed of becoming a drummer, but at the age of 12, he received his first guitar as a Christmas gift. The moment he strummed it, he felt an instant connection. With no formal training or internet resources, he learned through trial and error, tuning his guitar in open G and mimicking a friend who studied at the Conservatory.

As he grew older, he discovered the worlds of blues and jazz, finding in them the freedom he had been searching for. "Jazz is the truth. You can't cheat. You improvise, you reveal yourself, and you share who you are at that moment."

In 2016, during his final university year, he returned to the conservatory to solidify his skills under the guidance of Patrick Desvaux, a significant figure in Mauritian music. It was during this time that he co-founded the group Cadenza Moris, a vibrant project focused on original compositions, which took a five-year hiatus before planning a comeback in December 2025.

In 2023, Shylome moved to Montreal, carrying his guitar, a few scores, and immense hope as he pursued a diploma in jazz performance. The Canadian cold was a shock, but the Montreal music scene welcomed him with open arms. Now, a freelance musician, composer, arranger, and part-time guitar teacher, he plays almost every day and continues to collaborate with Mauritian artists.

Despite the distance, he feels connected to his roots. "I left Mauritius, but Mauritius has never left me," he says fondly, recalling the streets of Mahébourg, salty winds, and sunset views. At 32, Shylome is constantly exploring, composing, and teaching, driven by the belief that "music is my kingdom." In this realm, he is neither king nor subject but a free-spirited pilgrim, passionately pursuing his craft.

As he observes the music industry transform with the rise of AI, he remains optimistic. "AI will change everything, yes. But it will never replace the human connection, the energy of live music. A machine cannot feel the rush of a successful improvisation," he asserts, balancing realism with hope.