EchoEtcher
Well-known member
For Beverly Glenn-Copeland, his music has always been a means of expression that transcends mortality. Despite being diagnosed with late-stage dementia two years ago, which forced him to reevaluate his priorities and creative pursuits, the 81-year-old musician remains committed to his craft.
In fact, his latest album, Laughter in Summer, was recorded in a single take during an informal session with a choir at Montreal's Hotel2Tango studio. The spontaneity and freedom of this approach have allowed Glenn to tap into a creative wellspring he thought had long been tapped dry.
When asked about the challenges of living with dementia, Glenn responds with characteristic humor and humility. "There are days when I could just weep," he admits. "But there are also days when I think, well, that tends to be what happens – things go forward, but they often get clawed back." However, he notes that spiritual practice has helped him cope with the struggles of his condition, including the reversal of trans rights around the world.
Glenn's commitment to social justice and equality is evident in his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in Canada. He lobbied the government for years to allow trans people to change their gender on passports without intrusive tests, citing that "it's none of your business what I do with my body, it's a question of my identity."
Despite facing financial uncertainty and precarious living arrangements, Glenn remains committed to his artistic pursuits. His wife, Elizabeth, notes that he sings not just for love of music but also as a means of supporting their family financially.
As the couple navigates this challenging time in their lives, they remain optimistic about the future. They hope that this tour will not be their last, and are planning a memoir, musical, and community workshops to continue sharing Glenn's message with the world.
For Glenn-Copeland, music has always been a source of joy and expression, one that continues to transcend his physical limitations as he ages. As he says with a grin, "This ain't it – there will come a time for the rocking chair, but not now."
In fact, his latest album, Laughter in Summer, was recorded in a single take during an informal session with a choir at Montreal's Hotel2Tango studio. The spontaneity and freedom of this approach have allowed Glenn to tap into a creative wellspring he thought had long been tapped dry.
When asked about the challenges of living with dementia, Glenn responds with characteristic humor and humility. "There are days when I could just weep," he admits. "But there are also days when I think, well, that tends to be what happens – things go forward, but they often get clawed back." However, he notes that spiritual practice has helped him cope with the struggles of his condition, including the reversal of trans rights around the world.
Glenn's commitment to social justice and equality is evident in his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in Canada. He lobbied the government for years to allow trans people to change their gender on passports without intrusive tests, citing that "it's none of your business what I do with my body, it's a question of my identity."
Despite facing financial uncertainty and precarious living arrangements, Glenn remains committed to his artistic pursuits. His wife, Elizabeth, notes that he sings not just for love of music but also as a means of supporting their family financially.
As the couple navigates this challenging time in their lives, they remain optimistic about the future. They hope that this tour will not be their last, and are planning a memoir, musical, and community workshops to continue sharing Glenn's message with the world.
For Glenn-Copeland, music has always been a source of joy and expression, one that continues to transcend his physical limitations as he ages. As he says with a grin, "This ain't it – there will come a time for the rocking chair, but not now."
he's still creating music despite being diagnosed with dementia and facing all these challenges in his personal life 
i think it's amazing how he stays positive and hopeful about the future, especially when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights 
he's not afraid to speak up for what he believes in and fight for social justice, even if it means going against the status quo 
love how he still sees music as a way to support his family financially too, that's just real talk 
. I mean can you imagine dealing with all that pressure to perform and still being able to rock out? 
The fact that he's advocating for trans rights and equality is super cool too, it's like he's breaking down barriers with his music 
. I'm rooting for this guy all the way!
Oh man, I'm getting chills reading about Beverly Glenn-Copeland's story! He's such an inspiration to me, especially given what he's going through with dementia. It's amazing how music has allowed him to keep his creative spark alive even when things seem darkest. His commitment to social justice and LGBTQ+ rights is truly admirable too - it's heartening to see someone using their platform for good. I can only imagine how tough it must be for him and Elizabeth to navigate this life, but their optimism and love for music are a reminder that there's still so much joy to be found in the world 
like, doesn't it make it hard for him to even focus on his art anymore? and what about the fact that trans rights are getting rolled back in canada? shouldn't he be using his platform to speak out against that instead of just advocating for his own identity? 
but then again, if music is really all he has to cope with his struggles, maybe it's good for him that he can still express himself like this... or maybe not.
. It shows that even when our bodies aren't what they used to be, our passions and creativity can still take us on amazing journeys 
. I love how he finds joy in music not just for himself but also as a way to support his family 
. I'm rooting for him to get back on tour and keep sharing his message with the world 
!
beverly glenn-copeland is like an example of how art can overcome even life's biggest challenges 
it's amazing how music can bring people together and make a difference in the world 
I mean Beverly's still killin it at 81 and makin music that matters...it's like he's showin us all what it means to live life with purpose and passion 
and I love how he still finds joy in music despite the challenges...he's got this carefree spirit that's infectious 
.
. And can we talk about how cool it is that he's still touring and planning new projects? This guy is a true legend in every sense of the word 
!
.
. Anyway, the fact that he still gets emotional about it (weeps? 
) shows you how passionate he is.
. And community workshops? That's a great idea! More people need to hear his message, especially the younger generation