In 2025, The Roots of Music (TROM) will graduate around thirty-five students from the Marching Crusaders and Roots Studio Academy programs combined. The Marching Crusaders program serves students nine through fourteen and they graduate when they turn fifteen. This TROM graduation will also celebrate students from The Roots Studio Academy, as they graduate from
high school. The Marching Crusaders will be taking their next steps by moving onto local high schools, while our Roots Studio Academy students go on to pursue higher education opportunities.

The Roots of Music was created in 2007 during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, by Derrick Tabb, Grammy winner and CNN Hero. Tabb watched as many of the city’s music education programs did not come back in the wake of the storm and he knew that in order to save the lives of the city’s youth as well as its culture, he had to create a space for youth and music to thrive. From its humble beginnings as a six-week drum camp at Tipitina’s, a bar and music venue, to being a $1 million dollar organization with three programs and full wrap-around support services, The Roots of Music has held true to the belief that music saves lives.The Roots of Music’s three programs include Sprouts of Music (ages 3 – 8 years), Marching Crusaders Band (ages 9 – 14 years), and The Roots Studio Academy (ages 15 – 18 years).

This celebration will be held on May 24 starting at noon. The concert and event will take place at The Roots of Music’s headquarters, at 1020 N. Prieur St. New Orleans, LA 70116. Graduating Marching Crusaders will perform, as well as Roots Studio Academy students. “Graduation is a reflective time each year,” says Erica Spruille, Chief Operations Officer at The Roots of Music. “Our students look back on their accomplishments, while we look back at their growth. We can’t wait for what the next chapter holds for our kids!”