We are currently taking applications. Download one here.

The Roots of Music is a music education program for middle-school students in New Orleans. The Roots of Music is run by Program Director Derrick Tabb of The Rebirth Brass Band, Band Director Lawrence Rawlins, and Instructors Shoan Ruffin, Allen Dejan, and Edward Lee.

There are currently 60 middle students learning the rudiments of marching band music in weekly rehearsals at Tipitina's nightclub. This summer, the program will grow to 150 students and by the Fall we will be fully up and running as a daily afterschool program with 200 students in a dedicated facility. The program is free for all students.

The support of Vic Firth Drumsticks, HQ Percussion, Tipitina's Foundation, Hudson Music, and B’nai Israel Baton Rouge have allowed RoM to begin with this pilot session.

We are in need of instruments as well as donations to cover the costs of busing, facilities, and salaries for our Instructors. Contact us at (504) 723-4666 or make a donation here.

Currently there are sixty students receiving free musical instruction as part of a summer pilot session. With your support, the Roots of Music will grow to a daily afterschool program serving as many as 200 students this fall.

When you choose to sponsor a child for Roots of Music, you are providing them with a hands-on music curriculum incorporating guidance counseling, music theory, history, instrumental instruction, and physical training. Your $500 tax deductible donation also provides your child with:

• Transportation to and from the program
• Band Uniform
• Instrument rental/care
• Meals
• Academic tutoring

In addition to helping rekindle the marching band culture of our youths and being a strong positive influence in a child’s life, you will receive:

• A framed portrait of your child
• Monthly updates on his/her progress
• A Roots of Music Membership

Please view our current roster of students to select a child to sponsor and contact therootsofmusic@gmail.com to request a sponsorship form.

Donations are always welcome. All contributions in support of the Roots of Music project should be made payable to:

Please make a notation on the Memo Line: Roots of Music.

For more information, see here