"Listen to Our City" - A Conversation with Derrick Tabb

We are thrilled to host a 2017 YLC Role Model recipient, Derrick Tabb, of both Rebirth Brass Band and the Roots of Music, to share his compelling story!  In 2008 Derrick combined his musical prowess with a community need to care for some of our city's most vulnerable youth. This call to action led Derrick to found the nonprofit, Roots of Music (Roots). 5 days a week, 12 months a year Roots provides academic and musical mentorship for over 100 pupils ages 9-14. To combat common barriers to entry Roots provides roundtrip transportation and hot meals for their students. 

Just as Derrick followed his instincts to support our community, so too are we presented with daily challenges to "Listen to OUR City" and respond accordingly. We hope you can join us in this interactive discussion! This event is free for YLC members and $10 for Friends of YLC.

About Derrick:

Derrick was born and raised in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. A drummer since the age of 5, Derrick is a professional musician and major contributor to the music industry. Since the 1990s, Derrick has performed as the snare drummer with the 2012 Grammy Award-winning Rebirth Brass Band.

Derrick’s belief in the future of New Orleans and to the preservation and celebration of its great cultural and musical heritage led him to found the Roots of Music. His commitment to improving the life choices of youth in New Orleans and to the success of the program have led to national recognition for the Roots of Music and its leader including:

• Top Ten CNN Hero (2009)
• Energizer Bunny Hall of Fame Top Ten Finalist (2010)
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Angel Award for outstanding volunteer services on behalf of Louisiana’s Children (2011)
• YLC Role Model (2017)
• Tuba Phil Frazier Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)

And many more!