In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier speaks with Denise Bacon. Denise is a dedicated clarinetist and amateur musician who has Parkinson’s Disease. She gained international recognition for playing her instrument during deep-brain stimulation surgery at King's College Hospital, helping surgeons monitor her motor functions in real time.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, the guest is Daphne Bryan, PhD. Daphne is the author of MUSIC AS MEDICINE and PARKINSON'S AND THE B1 THERAPY. An experienced musician and researcher, she explores how music can support neurological health—especially in people with Parkinson’s disease—and how therapeutic approaches like high-dose vitamin B1 can improve quality of life for those affected by the condition. Her work blends scientific insight with practical guidance, drawing on both research and her own lived experience to help readers understand and apply these interventions.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier speaks with Tony Coffey. Tony Coffey is a musician and songwriter whose distinctive voice and heartfelt storytelling shine through songs deeply informed by his experience living with Parkinson’s disease. His work blends authentic lyrics and memorable melodies, offering listeners a moving reflection on resilience, vulnerability, and the human spirit. https://tonycoffey.com/

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier speaks with Craig McKenzie, Associate Director of Bands at the University of Miami. Craig’s mother has been on the Parkinson’s journey for thirty years, and Craig’s thoughtful insights into caregiving and how PD impacts one’s family are invaluable for all those with a loved one facing Parkinson's.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this first episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations for 2026, Thomas Verrier speaks with Joe Stemnock. After receiving his PD diagnosis in 2017 and retiring as a middle school teacher in 2018, Joe pursued his dream of becoming a songwriter and recording artist. Joe is a true inspiration! To hear Joe's music follow this link: www.youtube.com/@stemmy

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier speaks with conductor and trumpeter William Bing. Now retired and 10+ years into his journey with Parkinson's Disease, Bill's positive outlook is inspiring.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier talks with Priscilla Weaver. Pricilla shares her story and discusses the significant role that piano playing and walking playlists have had in her daily fight against Parkinson’s disease.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson's Conversations, Thomas Verrier visits again with Dr. Jonathan Cannon. This time, they discuss experiences dealing with tempo and review some relevant research.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson's Conversations, flutist Teresa Muir shares the story of her 21-year journey with Parkinson's Disease.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, I speak with Dr. Concetta Tomaino, executive director and co-founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institute_for_Music_and_Neurologic_Function)(IMNF).

A past president of the American Association for Music Therapy, Dr. Tomaino is internationally known for her research in the clinical applications of music and neurologic rehabilitation. In our conversation, Dr. Tomaino shares her perspectives on my personal experiences.

If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone.

ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community.

 FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: ⁠www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons⁠ ⁠www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons⁠