Finding Light
UCI Music and UCI MIND Join Forces for a Profound Musical Journey into Alzheimer’s
On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 8 p.m., the UC Irvine Claire Trevor School of the Arts Department of Music and UCI MIND will present Finding Light: Alzheimer’s Stories by Robert S. Cohen at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Conducted by Dr. Irene Messoloras, head of choral programs at UC Irvine, the concert explores the profound journey of Alzheimer’s, featuring soloists, choir, percussion and piano, brought to life by 150 voices.
This contemporary and melodic work is structured in three movements, each offering a unique perspective on Alzheimer’s disease — its origins, memories from those affected and the experiences of caregivers. The final section highlights the power of music in reconnecting patients to the present, underscoring its profound emotional and therapeutic effects. Enhancing the experience, supertitles and evocative visuals will honor patients and their families, making this concert a deeply immersive experience.
The event is part of a new partnership between the Department of Music and UCI MIND, the university’s premier research institute dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Before the performance, a 7 p.m. panel discussion featuring UCI MIND experts, patients and caregivers will provide insights into the latest research and the profound effects of music on cognitive health.
“It has been an incredible experience partnering with UCI MIND,” said Messoloras. “Our students have had the opportunity to hear from caregivers, doctors, and researchers, which has given them a much deeper understanding of Alzheimer’s and its impact. The ability to bring together scientific research and artistic expression in such a personal way has been transformative for everyone involved.”
A key element of this collaboration has been the involvement of Dr. Joshua Grill, director of UCI MIND, who has played an active role in engaging with students.
“Dr. Grill has been so willing to come into the classroom and talk about the research at UCI MIND,” Messoloras adds. “Students have asked him everything from the origins of the disease to the different types of dementia, and even personal questions about how it affects families. When you make that personal connection, the experience becomes even more powerful.”
“It has been inspiring to interact with these talented musicians who really have embraced the concept of delivering an artistic performance about a challenging condition,” said Dr. Grill. “Their performance, I am confident, will also convey what a hopeful time it is in our efforts to discover solutions for people living with Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Messoloras and her team have been wonderful to work with and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of this novel collaboration between our outstanding programs.”
Through this performance, UC Irvine is presenting an important artistic work and providing a space for the community to reflect, learn and engage in meaningful dialogue about Alzheimer’s disease. The event underscores the transformative power of music and its ability to reach across disciplines, fostering connections between the arts and sciences in ways that resonate far beyond the stage.
Joining the performance as soloists are Daniel Keeling and Erin Wood, both accomplished artists bringing a wealth of experience to the concert.
Daniel Keeling, an assistant professor of teaching in the Department of Drama, is a versatile performing artist, educator, and voice teacher. Keeling brings extensive experience in interpreting and performing a wide range of vocal repertoire. His personal connection to the performance’s message is reflected in his creative preparation, adding an additional layer of emotional depth to the concert.
Erin Wood, a soprano and voice faculty member at El Camino College, is known for her “soaring soprano” and deeply expressive performances. She has sung with San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Metropolitan Opera, with standout roles including Sieglinde in Die Walküre and Amelia in Un Ballo in Maschera. A recipient of the George London Foundation’s Kirsten Flagstad Award, Wood brings a wealth of artistry and experience to the concert.
“Bringing this piece to UCI, in collaboration with UCI MIND, has been a deeply meaningful and remarkable opportunity,” Messoloras reflects. “As a conductor, presenting a work of this significance—one that has the power to educate, inspire, and heal—is something truly special.”
Image: Guest artists Daniel Keeling (left) and Erin Wood.
Finding Light: Alzheimer’s Stories is generously supported by UCI MIND, friends of Choral Activities, the Marjorie & Rawlins Endowed Fund, the Claire Trevor Society, Professor Emeritus Joseph Huszti and Goran Matijasevic.
Tickets for this powerful artistic and educational event range from $10 to $21. For more information and tickets, visit www.arts.uci.edu/tickets or call (949) 824-2787.
Read a special CTSA Q&A with Assistant Professor Daniel Keeling.
About UCI MIND
UCI MIND, the Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders at UC Irvine, is a leading research center dedicated to advancing the understanding, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. For more information, visit mind.uci.edu.
About the UC Irvine Department of Music
The UC Irvine Department of Music, housed within the Claire Trevor School of the Arts, is committed to fostering artistic excellence, innovative research, and dynamic community engagement. The department provides a vibrant environment for musicians to explore performance, composition and scholarship. Learn more at arts.uci.edu/music.