At the center of great music—and great collaboration—is the ability to listen deeply.

In this keynote lecture, Stefon Harris explores how listening shapes creativity, musical fluency, and human connection. Drawing on stories from his career performing with jazz legends and teaching musicians around the world, Harris reveals how cultivating curiosity, openness, and empathy allows artists to unlock new possibilities in both music and life.

Post-presentation reception/meet and greet to follow in Voxman Commons.

Sponsored by the Ida Cordelia Beam Distinguished Visiting Professorship Program under the UI Office of the Executive Vice President & Provost, School of Music, African American Studies, and Tippie College of Business.