On Tuesday evening (2018), I had the wonderful fortune to see Josh Groban and Idina Menzel in concert at the Blue Cross Arena. I seldom attend concerts, but the concert made me realize how important it is to sample different forms of art than those to which we normally gravitate.

Both Idina and Josh gave stunning, memorable performances. Because I have been a huge Josh Groban fan since I first saw him as the shy, dulcet-voiced Malcolm Wyatt on Ally McBeal, it was a thrill to see him live. His voice has matured to become even more velvety, rich and masterful.

I was also delighted to learn  how both he and Idina use their art to make a positive impact on the world. I always hope those who are in such influential positions take advantage of their opportunity to give back. In 2010, Idina founded A BroaderWay, a non-profit organization that offers underserved girls an opportunity to participate in summer theater camp in the Berkshires. Josh founded the Find Your Light Foundation in 2011, partnering with Americans for the Arts to help ensure every child has the chance to experience a quality arts education.

Between  songs — some from his Bridges album, some older works — it was as if Josh was chatting with us in his (albeit enormous) living room. He was genuine, charming, poignant and funny. He spoke candidly about having been a shy, depressed child and poor student in school, who has since been ever so grateful that teachers pushed him to find his “higher self.” The song “Granted” (video shown below) was written and filmed in encouragement to students finding their way, and in tribute to the teachers guiding them.

He also talked about mental health, sharing how dark periods in his own life inspired the song “River.” He implored those wrestling with depression and mental health issues to reach out to others for help, since the support and understanding of friends and loved ones can make all the difference.

As an encore, he performed Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” saying the time was “right” to record this song, and calling for empathy and compassion to end the division in this country.

When we attend theater, music, dance, an art or photography exhibit, a poetry reading or other event …we go for the art, but we often come away with far more.

In the end, I think each of us at the concert walked away far richer than when we entered, taking home a little piece of Josh Groban’s heart and soul. What more can we ask for from any work of art?

Above: Josh Groban performs with his entourage of musicians and with Rochester-based musicians as well as Nazareth voice and musical theatre students.