Doctor by day, violinist by night: an inside look at the melodic world of Dr Ian Ayugu

Dr Ian Ayugu, is a violinist from Nakuru.
When you watch Ian Ayugu perform, his calm demeanour reveals little. It is only when his bow meets the strings that the room transforms, his fingertips weave emotion into every note and his music speaks where words fall short.
Ayugu’s musical journey began in high school, where he studied the subject and played the trumpet. However, he discovered his true calling almost by accident in 2017 when he encountered the violin by chance.
“I actually started playing out of curiosity. My roommate’s girlfriend had a violin lying around, so I tried it out. A few weeks later, I played my first gig, and when I got paid, that really sealed the deal," he says with a smile.
Although largely self-taught, Ayugu’s background in music made the transition smoother. However, he admits that being on a solo learning journey has its challenges.
"Sometimes you get stuck and there’s no one to guide you. But you keep learning, one note at a time," he says.
He started out with Afrobeats, but over the years his style has evolved into a soulful blend of old classics and smooth soul.
“I love connecting with people through familiar tunes. Sometimes I take song requests during performances. If it’s a song I don’t know, I learn it later," he explains.
Ayugu’s musical inspirations range from David Ralak in Kenya, who is known for his classical mastery, to Demola in Nigeria, whose flair and creativity inspire him to keep evolving.
“I watch their performances all the time they remind me that there’s always room to grow,” he says.
Despite his growing recognition, Ayugu remains grounded. A veterinarian by profession, he balances his day job with an active performing career that has taken him to weddings, corporate events, funerals and even intimate proposals.
“Every performance has its own rhythm. The energy depends on the crowd and the occasion. You feed off the vibe,” he says.
He admits that stage fright never fully disappears. "It fades with time, but it's always there. I usually start with slow songs and build up the tempo, which helps me to settle in.”
For Ayugu, the violin is more than just an instrument it's a form of therapy. “It keeps me sane, lifts my spirits and helps me connect with people,” he reflects.
Although his practice sessions are spontaneous, he cautions aspiring artists against inconsistency. "Discipline is key. That’s something I’m still working on.”
His passion has also taken him beyond the stage, into the homes of children and Sunday schools, where he teaches, and into the company of dignitaries. He says that each moment reminds him why he picked up the violin in the first place.
“My advice to young musicians? Don’t give up. It's tough going, but every note you play brings you closer to where you’re meant to be,” he says.