87-year-old MacEwan University student mastering 4 musical instruments | MacEwan University - Global News

Morgan Black, Global Edmonton’s Community Reporter summarizes, Lawrence McKnight enrolled in university to keep his mind active.

 Photo: Screenshot from Global News Video

“One of the things recommended to ward off Alzheimer’s disease is to fill your head with music or language,” the 87-year-old said. “I had so much trouble with French in high school, I thought I better go with music.”

But, as the senior continued his studies at MacEwan University’s Conservatory of Music, it blossomed into a true passion.

He remembers the first time he played a note on the clarinet.

He went on to learn the piano, violin and the euphonium. McKnight just passed his Grade 2 Royal Conservatory of Music practical examination on clarinet...

“For Lawrence, it’s like going to work. He comes and practices and gets better on his instruments,” said clarinet instructor Dan Sutherland. “Most people don’t stick it out that long. Five years for adults is usual. Then, they get interested in other things.
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Source: Global News