About Us

Every rhythm has a reason!

We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and emerging artists through music, education, and real connections.

As a newly launched, youth-driven initiative, Rhythm and Reason is built on the energy, creativity, and leadership of young people. We are passionate about creating opportunities that reflect the voices and ideas of the next generation.

Our Story

Rhythm and Reason was created from a shared passion for music and a belief in its power to bring people together and create real impact. As founders and team members, music has always been a core part of who we are—it connects us, inspires us, and has shaped our own experiences in meaningful ways.

Through our charity concert series and community partnerships, we use music as a force for good—supporting local artists while giving back to causes that matter. The live events we organize are designed to create experiences that not only inspire audiences but also strengthen and support the community around us.

Our goal is to provide youth with unique and accessible music experiences—through camps, live performances, and leadership opportunities—that build confidence, creativity, and real-world skills. As we grow, we remain committed to creating a space where music has purpose, and where it can truly make a difference.

My name is Lula Shaw

Founder & Executive Director

Music has always been the heartbeat of my family. My journey started long before I picked up an instrument, rooted in a legacy that spans generations, from my great-grandfather, who conducted the British Army Orchestra, to my grandparents in the jazz world and my stepfather’s career as a professional musician. Growing up in such a melodic environment, it felt only natural to pursue my own path in music school, where I graduated at the top of my class as a trumpet player.

While music is my heritage, giving back is my personal mission. I’ve always felt a deep pull toward volunteer work, a passion that solidified during my first job soliciting donations for Sunnybrook Hospital. That experience showed me the incredible impact of collective generosity.

I founded this organization to bring those two worlds together. By blending the energy of live music events with the mentorship of our youth day camps, I get to share the gift of music while supporting the causes that need us most. For me, there is no greater joy than using the arts to create a lasting, positive change in our community.