Etienne Goilo

Etienne Goilo has played an important role in supporting Curaçao’s music community as both a musician and music retailer. As the current owner of Instrucur, the store founded by Tom Smeulders, Etienne has continued its legacy as a gathering place for local players and a trusted source for musical instruments and gear. Having grown up within the island’s close-knit music scene, he developed strong relationships with fellow musicians—many of whom he considers not just customers, but friends. For Etienne, running the store has been as much about community as commerce, and he has taken great pride in serving and being supported by those relationships. In April 2026, Etienne helped coordinate and host a series of NAMM Oral History interviews at his store, welcoming both Tom Smeulders and Freddy Domitilia to share their stories. During Freddy’s interview, Etienne joined in musically, playing guitar alongside Freddy on mandolin—an emblematic moment reflecting the spirit of collaboration and tradition that defines Curaçao’s music culture. Through his efforts, Etienne has contributed to preserving and celebrating the island’s rich musical heritage.