Music is present in our mental lives and can be a powerful antidote for emotional turmoil. This is particularly true in our current social, political, and cultural environment.

This course will bring awareness and deeper understanding regarding the power of music. Musical examples offered by Instructors Julie and Louis Nagel and also by class participants will be a basis for discussions about coping with the powerful feelings that have been evoked during COVID-19, the murder of George Floyd, and simmering racial, social, and political tensions. We will share poignant music and video clips that explore effects which include rage, loneliness, feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed, vulnerable, and oppressed, as well as ways music can motivate people to think about turning loss, grief, and violence into positive action. West Side Story will begin our explorations.

The study group will be held on Thursdays from October 1 through 29.

Pre-registration is required via the OLLI website or by phone. A link to access the study group will be e-mailed to you approximately one week prior to the first session.