“Music and the community that music creates—the kind of comfort that it offers people—that is unlike anything else in my experience,” Kraft said.
In response, Kraft began what is now known as the Bastrop Live Music Foundation. Now in its second year, the foundation established a new program, Gear for Good, to help provide young musicians and venues with access to musical instruments and equipment.
The program donated its first instrument, a keyboard, with a second donation on the way. More information about the donation process can be found on the foundation’s website.
The big picture
The Bastrop Live Music Foundation helps local venues book and finance expensive shows so that the music-loving community in Bastrop doesn’t have to drive to Austin to hear some of their favorite bands, Kraft said.
“It takes the burden off of the clubs and off of the community and it brings more well-known musicians to Bastrop,” Kraft said. “It [also] allows local musicians to play for a decent wage, because we'll pair them up sometimes with other acts.”
The Bastrop Live Music Foundation held 40 shows in the past year including performances at Neighbor’s Kitchen and Yard, songwriter showcases and Music in the Park.
