The Newbury of Brookline, a Kisco Signature Community, proudly welcomed members, guests and community members on Thursday, May 14, 2026, for a thought-provoking conversation with acclaimed neuroscientist, cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Daniel J. Levitin as part of its ongoing Red Carpet Speaker Series.
During the event, Music, Memory, and the Brain: Unlocking the Science of a Life Well Lived, Dr. Levitin explored the powerful connection between music, cognition, memory and healthy aging, sharing how music can shape emotional well-being, stimulate the brain and strengthen human connection throughout every stage of life.
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More than 35 attendees participated in the event, including members, associates, family members, local community guests and visitors from across the Brookline area. The interactive session featured audience discussion, thoughtful questions and personal reflections from attendees, creating an engaging and highly participatory afternoon.
“Programs like these are one of the many reasons I value being part of this community,” said Elaine Murphy, a member at The Newbury of Brookline. “Having the opportunity to hear directly from accomplished experts like Dr. Levitin keeps us engaged and continuously learning. It is a great feeling to be part of a community that prioritizes experiences like this and brings enriching conversations right to our doorstep.”
During the presentation, Dr. Levitin discussed the science behind how the brain processes music, the role music plays in memory recall and emotional regulation, and the growing body of research surrounding music’s impact on aging and overall wellness. The conversation also touched on cognitive resilience, social connection, and the importance of continued intellectual engagement as people age.
“It’s always incredibly rewarding to speak with communities that are so intellectually curious and deeply engaged,” said Dr. Levitin, neuroscientist, cognitive psychologist and bestselling author. “Music has a unique ability to connect us to memories, emotions and one another in ways that are profoundly meaningful throughout our lives. I was honored to spend the afternoon with The Newbury community and inspired by the thoughtful participation and enthusiasm in the room.”
Dr. Levitin is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading experts on music, neuroscience, and aging. He is James McGill Professor Emeritus at McGill University, Founding Dean of Minerva University in San Francisco and Adjunct Professor of Neurosciences at the UCLA Geffen School of Medicine. He is also the bestselling author of several acclaimed books including This Is Your Brain on Music, The Organized Mind and Successful Aging. Prior to his academic career, Dr. Levitin worked as a record producer and engineer with artists including Stevie Wonder, Santana and Joni Mitchell.
The event was hosted as part of The Newbury’s Red Carpet Speaker Series, an ongoing program designed to bring nationally recognized thought leaders, innovators, artists and experts directly to members and the surrounding community. Through these experiences, The Newbury continues to prioritize lifelong learning, meaningful engagement and opportunities for members to remain connected to important conversations shaping today’s world.
“At The Newbury, we believe learning and personal growth should continue at every stage of life,” said Celia Andrade, Memory Care Director at The Newbury of Brookline. “Bringing speakers like Dr. Levitin to our community creates opportunities for members to engage with important topics in meaningful and inspiring ways. It was incredible to see such an enthusiastic turnout and participation throughout the afternoon, and we are grateful to Dr. Levitin for sharing his expertise and passion with our members and guests.”
The Newbury plans to continue expanding its Red Carpet Speaker Series with future events featuring influential voices across science, wellness, culture, technology and the arts. Additional programming and upcoming speaker announcements can be found at https://lifeatthenewbury.com/.
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About The Newbury of Brookline
The Newbury of Brookline, a premier Kisco Signature Community, is located on the historic grounds of Newbury College in Brookline, Massachusetts. This distinguished senior living community offers a refined blend of sophistication and comfort, featuring 81 independent living, 37 assisted living, and 40 memory care residences. Members enjoy premier amenities including a solar-heated indoor saltwater pool, rooftop bar, and state-of-the-art wellness center. Guided by Kisco’s Life Enrichment philosophy, The Newbury honors its storied past while providing an enriched lifestyle, a seamless continuum of care, and an experience of unmatched excellence in senior living.
