Alistair Scott

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier speaks with Alistair Scott, a gentleman whose story is an inspirational reminder that it’s never too late to learn something completely new.With no prior training, he took up the clarinet in his early seventies. Three years ago, Alistair was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Still, he has carried on learning and playing, not only because of the enormous satisfaction he gets from making music, but because he’s found it to be therapeutic on many levels. At the age of 80, Alistair decided to take things one step further. He bought himself an alto saxophone — and now he’s learning to play that instrument as well! In this conversation, Alistair shares his perspectives on learning later in life, living with Parkinson’s, and the powerfully positive effects of making music.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; create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and raise awareness and understanding in the broader community. PLEASE FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons #parkinsondiseaseawareness #parkinsonsawareness #michaeljfoxfoundation