GBMC's Piano Man

During his banking career, Bill Murray was a recognized national expert in the areas of cash management, treasury management, electronic commerce, U.S. payment systems, and Internet banking. It may come as a surprise that after his banking career, Bill decided to attend Towson University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in music in 2008 and his master’s degree in music in 2011. For the past 12 years at GBMC, Bill has volunteered playing the piano twice a week.

In fact, Bill is an extremely talented composer, with 50 original songs. Throughout the year, he will play hundreds of songs from many composers including his own jazz interpretations of songs from musicians like Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and James Taylor.

Having come to GBMC when his wife, Helen, was diagnosed with cancer, he saw pianos around the hospital and decided to explore what they were used for. Learning they were played by volunteers, he decided to become a volunteer and play the piano at GBMC.

What an experience this has been for him! His audience of patients, families, and staff often personally thanks him for even just a few minutes of respite. The most enthusiastic comes from Dr. John Chessare, GBMC HealthCare’s President and CEO, who shares Bill’s love of jazz.

In addition to his musical talents, Bill is an inspiring volunteer leader at GBMC. He served as President of the Volunteer Auxiliary, Chair of the Volunteer Division of The Promise Project Committee, a member of the 50th Anniversary Founders’ Cabinet, and is a longtime supporter of the SAFE & DV Program’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event.

Bill is serious about giving back through philanthropy. He encouraged his grown children and sister to join him in memorializing Helen through the Helen Murray Patient Education Resource Center in the Kroh Center for Digestive Disorders. He and friend, Rodica Johnson, a fellow volunteer, also offered a 1-to-1 challenge grant to encourage volunteer colleagues to support The Promise Project.

His passion for music and helping others through music therapy, volunteerism, and philanthropy keep him actively thinking about his next act. He encourages others to think about keeping their bodies and minds engaged by pursuing their passions.

Chaplain Sandy Rector, Spiritual Support Manager, who auditions all new GBMC piano players, said, “They say that music soothes the soul, and I have seen over and over how that happens here at GBMC. We are so blessed to have a wonderfully dedicated group of volunteers who play piano in the waiting areas at GBMC. Bill’s generous gift of the beautiful new piano for the Louis and Phyllis Friedman lobby allows that tradition to continue.”

GBMC volunteers possess the commitment and desire to share their time and abilities to help others. If this sounds like you, discover additional details on how to become a volunteer by visiting www.gbmc.org/services/volunteers/steps-to-become-a-volunteer or contacting the Volunteer Services department at 443-849-2050.