Music: Producer of joy, healer of the soul, nourishment for the imagination

On a beautiful spring day, the James Madison University Lifelong Learning Institute was humming with excitement for a special presentation. Well-known speaker and musician Vijay Gupta took the stage on April 18, 2024, to a room filled with eager learners from all walks of life. Gupta, known for his passionate advocacy for the power of music to heal and transform lives, shared his journey from an exceptional violinist to a social activist. His presentation, interspersed with expressive violin pieces, captivated the audience, leaving them inspired, reflective and certainly wanting more.

(Vijay Gupta on violin - JS Bach: Sonata in C Major. Recorded by Louis Ng at Mechanics Hall, Worcester, Massachusetts, in May 2023 as part of Vijay's year-long residency with Music Worcester)

The event, part of the Lifelong Learning commitment to enriching the intellectual and social lives of adult learners, was supported by the Provost’s office, Academic Affairs, and the School of Professional & Continuing Education. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with Gupta, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own experiences with music and learning, as well as an invitation to sing along to Leonard Cohen’s, “Hallelujah.” The exchange of ideas continued well after the presentation, as conversations spilled over outside of Wilson Hall auditorium, enriched by the shared experience of Gupta's powerful message and music.

About the Lifelong Learning Institute: LLI is a member-driven program that promotes learning by providing affordable, not-for-credit, intellectual, cultural, and social experiences to enrich the lives of adults. Explore our upcoming connection and class offerings here: Lifelong Learning Institute. Consider joining us for one of our free events or as a member. All are welcome!

To learn more about, and find out how you can support, Gupta’s organization, Street Symphony, please click the link below:

https://www.streetsymphony.org/about/