By Faith Tittle
Craig Byrd initiates a collaboration with the Scottish Rite Theatre as well as other local organizations to create a community-based music program.
Craig Byrd has been a music lover all his life, and now he wants to spread that love. Craig grew up in Pekin, IL, and from a young age, music was something that soothed his soul and brought healing and joy to his life. He longed to learn to play, but instruments and other resources were not available to him. He quenched his appetite for music by following bands and dreaming of his future as a musician.
As Craig got older, musical instruments became more accessible to him. He began playing more and more. Through hard times in his life, music often acted as a form of therapy, offering a creative release in times of trouble. Over the years, Craig collected instruments and other equipment in hopes that someday he would be able to share them with people that otherwise would not have access to them, and he did! While living in Florida, Craig shared instruments with local families. His generosity helped provided a creative outlet for many people.
Today Craig’s vision for helping the community lives on. With the help of the Scottish Rite Theatre and other area organizations, Craig hopes to build a program that gives area musicians of all ages the opportunity to nurture their own passion for music and hone skills that will add value, joy, and healing to their lives. His vision is to offer instruments, classes, writing workshops, and studio time to local musicians, but Craig’s goal is much bigger. His goal is to create a safe space with opportunities for therapy that can lead to breakthrough in the lives of participants.
We are so thankful that the Scottish Rite Theatre can be a part of Craig’s vision and journey. Thank you, Craig, for your generosity and continued support of the performing arts!