A key component of Law Rocks’ mission is to promote music education for underserved youth. In 2023, due to our increased sponsorship and fundraising, Law Rocks was able to offer a new grant at each Law Rocks show: The Music Matters grant. This grant, continuing in 2024, is given to a local nonprofit that supports youth music education in each of our U.S. tour cities. Omi Crawford, director of Law Rocks, says of the grant initiative:
“Since our 2009 founding, Law Rocks has supported hundreds of incredible nonprofits, with an emphasis on youth music education organizations. The Music Matters grant is a natural evolution of our mission and a chance to formalize our support of amazing music education nonprofits across the country.”
Today’s spotlight is on our 2025 Law Rocks San Francisco Music Matters grant recipient, Bay Area Music Project (BAMP). This is BAMP’s second Law Rocks Music Matters grant, and we are happy to be highlighting the organization again.
Keep reading to learn more in our spotlight interview with Bay Area Music Project Founder and Executive Director, Lorrie Murray.
Our 2025 San Francisco Music Matters Grant Recipient: Bay Area Music Project | Photo by Don Hardy
1) Have any new programs or initiatives been introduced since our last conversation that you are particularly excited about?
Since our last conversation, we've been busy launching two new programs and enhancing our outreach and recruitment initiatives to make music education more inclusive and accessible in our communities. One of the exciting developments is the introduction of two new ensembles, a Double Bass ensemble and the BAMP Cello Academy.
Our Double Bass ensemble was introduced in August at our elementary school program and became an instant hit with our students and a great addition to our symphonic orchestra! Additionally, we are thrilled about the new Cello Academy, which is designed for our more advanced middle and high school students. This program will help refine their skills and prepare them for professional-level performances.
We've also made great strides in reaching more students and enhancing their musical experiences with a 25% increase in enrollment in our Alameda and Oakland programs.
2) What has been the most rewarding aspect of your work over the past year?
When I think about the most rewarding part of our work over the past year and every year, I have to say it's about watching our students grow—both as people and musicians. It's amazing to see them set goals for themselves and then work hard to achieve them. It's witnessing them face challenges and overcome them and seeing that big smile of pride after. But it's not just about mastering music; it's about helping them develop as individuals, build confidence, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. I'm very proud of the incredible team of teaching artists and support staff who care deeply about making a positive impact in kids' lives. They teach them resilience and perseverance, skills that will serve them well beyond music. For us, the most rewarding part is about being part of their journey and helping shape the next generation of musicians and empathetic, creative thinkers. It's a real privilege to play a role in that.
Photo by Don Hardy | courtesy of Bay Area Music Project
3) What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?
In the coming year, I’m most excited about the incredible opportunities for program expansion and community impact. We’ll be adding a new cohort of students to our Cello Academy and, by 2026, hope to invite upper-string students to form a new string ensemble program. Another exciting initiative is the continued development of our female and gender-expansive Digital Audio and Design cohort, GainUp, which provides mentorship opportunities to students to enhance their technical knowledge in engineering and recording skills.
On the partnership front, we’re thrilled to be in the early stages of collaborating with our local housing authority to bring music programming to one of its low-income housing communities. At the same time, we’re working hard to strengthen existing partnerships with school sites to create a cohesive K-12 music education experience. We’re also deepening our relationships with organizations like the Golden State Warriors and Valkyrie (WNBA) to offer performance opportunities and connect our students with sports they love.
4) What is your favorite thing about having your organization take part in a Law Rocks event?
Participating in a Law Rocks event is SO MUCH FUN! Last year, I had a great time as part of the Rock Panel of Judges, and I'm excited to do it again this year. What I enjoy most is seeing talented legal professionals showcase their musical side, share their passion for music, and be cheered by an audience. They probably don't receive that kind of response at their day job, LOL. The energy was electric from the start, especially when guest band THE RECUSALS from the Northern District of California Federal Court got everyone dancing with Motown favorites. It's inspiring to see people who are accomplished in law also thriving in music, using their talents to entertain and make a difference. The blend of great music, community spirit and giving back is what makes a Law Rocks event truly special.
Photo by Don Hardy | courtesy of Bay Area Music Project
5) What does the power of music mean to you?
Music has the transformative power to change a single person or an entire community. It connects us all on a deeper level and feeds our soul.
6) How will the Music Matters grant be used?
BAMP aims to provide support and opportunities for young people from marginalized communities to pursue careers in the technical and creative aspects of audio production. With the help of the Music Matters grant, we plan to expand our GainUp program to middle and high school students, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the music industry.
Learn more about Bay Area Music Project.
Get tickets to The 11th Annual Law Rocks San Francisco.