BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Colored Musicians Club in Buffalo is remembering the life and legacy of its CEO, Kenneth Peterson, who passed away on Sunday.
Peterson, described by colleagues as smart, humble, and deeply committed to the club's mission, played a vital role in preserving the institution's history while pushing its vision forward.
"He really absorbed the history of what the club was about," George Scott, president of the board of directors, said.
WATCH: 'Kind-hearted, community-minded man': Colored Musicians Club mourns loss of CEO Kenneth Peterson
Earlier this year, the Colored Musicians Club celebrated its 108th anniversary, honoring surviving members of the organization originally formed as Buffalo's Black Local 533 in 1917.
"I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Kenneth Peterson, a truly kind-hearted and community-minded soul. Kenneth wasn’t just an exceptional CEO of the Colored Musicians Club—he was someone who deeply absorbed the history of the organization, honoring its roots while shaping its future. He balanced that respect for tradition with vision—earlier this year, at the Club’s 108th anniversary celebration, Ken celebrated surviving members and shared his excitement for future programming, including the goal of opening a school to enrich the community he so dearly loved.
Kenneth also carried forward a remarkable family legacy. He was the grandson of King Peterson, the first African American to serve as acting Mayor of Buffalo (for 10 days), former Ellicott District Council Member, Council President Pro Tempore, and member of the Erie County Board of Supervisors representing the old Fifth Ward. Like his grandfather, Kenneth dedicated his life to community and civic leadership, leaving a lasting impact on Buffalo. Kenneth’s humility, warmth, and unwavering commitment made him feel like family. My heartfelt prayers are with his loved ones, the Club, and all in our community who had the joy of knowing him. Kenneth will be deeply missed, but his impact will live on through the history he honored and the future he helped shape."
Peterson was there to help celebrate the milestone and highlight future goals, including plans for programming and a school.
"He was a very kind-hearted, community-minded man," Scott said. "Everybody who met him enjoyed speaking with him and working with him. When they think of the club, they'll definitely think of Ken.
