Gilbert Long

In the latest installment of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier visits with his longtime colleague from the Blair School of Music, Gilbert Long. Gil is a world-class tuba player who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2018. Now retired from both Vanderbilt University and the Nashville Symphony, Gil talks candidly about his experiences. Together, these friends compare notes on the diversity and complexity of living with PD symptoms and share insights. If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hearfrom 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