Beverly Glenn-Copeland is living proof that art can transcend even the most challenging circumstances. Diagnosed with Late stage dementia two years ago, the 81-year-old musician and songwriter has chosen to continue performing live shows, albeit with some adjustments, as he embarks on his latest tour.
The Canadian musician's journey from obscurity to cult icon status is nothing short of remarkable. After releasing music without hope of recognition for most of his life, Glenn's re-emergence into the spotlight was fueled by a Japanese collector tracking down copies of his 1986 album Keyboard Fantasies. This discovery sparked a chain reaction that saw Glenn collaborating with notable artists like Sam Smith and the xx's Romy, as well as releasing new music and performing internationally.
Despite facing significant health challenges, including being unable to drive or fill out paperwork due to his condition, Glenn remains spry and enthusiastic on stage. His wife Elizabeth credits this to their long history together – they've been partners for almost 20 years – and the way they support each other through life's ups and downs.
Glenn himself attributes his resilience to spiritual practices like meditation and chanting, which help him navigate the complexities of living with dementia. He also finds solace in music, which has always come easily to him, despite struggling to read sheet music or sight-read due to his condition.
The couple's love for music and performance extends beyond their own work, as they see live shows as opportunities to foster community and bring people together. They are committed to making a positive impact through their art, even if it means taking on extra responsibilities like caring duties within the band.
As Glenn prepares for what may be his final tour, he's determined not to let his condition define him. "We don't want to be old people in that way that our culture tells us old people should be," his wife Elizabeth says, smiling as they gaze out at their autumnal garden. For Glenn, the focus is on enjoying life and creating art that inspires others – even if it means embracing the beauty of decay.
Despite living with dementia, Beverly Glenn-Copeland remains a shining example of how art can transcend adversity and bring people together in meaningful ways. His story serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment and find hope in the face of uncertainty.
The Canadian musician's journey from obscurity to cult icon status is nothing short of remarkable. After releasing music without hope of recognition for most of his life, Glenn's re-emergence into the spotlight was fueled by a Japanese collector tracking down copies of his 1986 album Keyboard Fantasies. This discovery sparked a chain reaction that saw Glenn collaborating with notable artists like Sam Smith and the xx's Romy, as well as releasing new music and performing internationally.
Despite facing significant health challenges, including being unable to drive or fill out paperwork due to his condition, Glenn remains spry and enthusiastic on stage. His wife Elizabeth credits this to their long history together – they've been partners for almost 20 years – and the way they support each other through life's ups and downs.
Glenn himself attributes his resilience to spiritual practices like meditation and chanting, which help him navigate the complexities of living with dementia. He also finds solace in music, which has always come easily to him, despite struggling to read sheet music or sight-read due to his condition.
The couple's love for music and performance extends beyond their own work, as they see live shows as opportunities to foster community and bring people together. They are committed to making a positive impact through their art, even if it means taking on extra responsibilities like caring duties within the band.
As Glenn prepares for what may be his final tour, he's determined not to let his condition define him. "We don't want to be old people in that way that our culture tells us old people should be," his wife Elizabeth says, smiling as they gaze out at their autumnal garden. For Glenn, the focus is on enjoying life and creating art that inspires others – even if it means embracing the beauty of decay.
Despite living with dementia, Beverly Glenn-Copeland remains a shining example of how art can transcend adversity and bring people together in meaningful ways. His story serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment and find hope in the face of uncertainty.
... I mean, have you seen Beverly Glenn-Copeland live? 
He's got this energy on stage that just draws you in, you know? And his wife Elizabeth is so supportive, it's really beautiful to see how they work together as a team. I was reading the part about how he credits meditation and chanting for helping him cope with dementia... yeah, I get where he's coming from 
. It's all about finding your inner peace and using that to fuel your creativity. And his latest tour is actually really inspiring - it's like he's saying "hey, you're not done yet!" even when life throws you curveballs 
. What I love most is how they see their live shows as a way to build community... that's something we all need more of in our lives 
. Anyway, just thinking about this and feeling all the feels 
. and let's be real, his wife's comments about their love for music being a way to bring people together sound super rehearsed 
. i mean, come on, they're in it for the fame and fortune now. he's just using his dementia as a way to get sympathy and adoration from the public 
. and what's with all these "opportunities to foster community" and "making a positive impact" vibes? sounds like some kinda marketing stunt to me 
.
. The way he and his wife Elizabeth support each other is also amazing, their 20-year partnership is a testament to the power of love and commitment 
. It's great to see him finding solace in meditation and chanting to help cope with his condition, mindfulness can be really powerful for mental health 
. I think it's beautiful that he's choosing not to let his dementia define him, focusing on enjoying life and creating art that inspires others is a great way to live 
! Like, I can only imagine what it's like to have dementia and still be able to put on an epic live show 
. His wife is super cool too for supporting him through all this, they're like two peas in a pod 
. But what really gets me is how he finds solace in meditation and music - I've tried those things before when I'm feeling stressed, and it's honestly the best 
. And his last quote "we don't want to be old people in that way" - yeah, let's all just enjoy life and create something beautiful while we can 
. Can't wait to see what the rest of his tour has in store! 
! I mean, 81 years young and still killing it on stage? That's what I call dedication 
. It's amazing how music has been his lifeline through all these challenges. I've always been a huge fan of his work, especially Keyboard Fantasies - that album is like a time capsule of sounds 
. What really gets me though is the way he and Elizabeth support each other. They're truly an inspiration to us all 
. His attitude is just so hopeful and uplifting