Music Rising was launched in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina. The organization’s mission was to rescue the musical culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South region of the United States in the hurricane’s aftermath by replacing musical instruments that were lost or destroyed in the deluge. Co-founded by U2’s The Edge and legendary producer Bob Ezrin – along with a host of music industry partners, the organization provided instruments to thousands of musicians and students and many churches, community and cultural programs. Since its inception, Music Rising has assisted over 3,000 musicians. In April, 2006, the organization helped to re-open the historic Preservation Jazz Hall in New Orleans and Music Rising heralded the historic performance by U2 and Green Day at the New Orleans Superdome officially reopening the stadium during the New Orleans Saints game. Later, the organization dedicated itself to helping churches and schools rebuild their music programs by providing tens of thousands of students with instruments to support music education and choir members with instruments they needed to bring music back to their congregations. Music Rising was also dedicated to supporting a variety of community musical and cultural organizations and events. Music Rising also awarded a $1 million grant to Tulane University’s The New Orleans Center for the Gulf South at Tulane University (NOCGS). The Center is now home to the coordinate major, Music Rising – The Musical Cultures of the Gulf South, a course of study focused on the region’s music and culture. The NOCGS also co-sponsors the Trombone Shorty Academy (TSA), a program for teaching musical fundamentals and cultural traditions to young musicians from underserved New Orleans high schools. Music Rising’s commitment continued to grow by providing instruments to other areas across the country affected by natural or economic disasters including the floods of Nashville in 2010, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and others. The charity is the recipient of the 2005 Gold HALO Award for Cause Marketing, the 2006 Billboard Humanitarian Award, the 2008 PRISM Award and the recipient of close to $1 million from the Clinton Global Initiative. In 2016, Music Rising was honored with the prestigious Jazz Foundation of America Medal of Honor. Music Rising is administered by The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and 100% of donations made go directly to its efforts. Fans and supporters can purchase new limited-edition merchandise to benefit the organization directly from the website. To find out more go to www.musicrising.com 
​