Vijay Gupta Discusses New Memoir 'Restrung'

Acclaimed violinist and author Vijay Gupta, noted for his wide-ranging artistry and visionary community engagement, takes the stage at Sierra Madre Playhouse on Friday, June 12, 2026, 8:00 PM, for an intimate and inspiring evening of storytelling and music. Designed as both a book release and concert to celebrate his memoir Restrung, which releases June 9, Gupta blends a compelling musical performance with candid reflections about his path through music and beyond. Tickets ($35) include a copy of the book.

Gupta is a former member of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, a MacArthur Fellowship awardee, and founder of local nonprofit Street Symphony, which brings world class music to people experiencing homelessness. His new memoir Restrung is the story of Gupta’s transformation – professional, personal, and spiritual – through music. Gupta shares his earliest memories as a child prodigy with his Bengali-American family, his burnout and collapse as a classical musician, and how playing music with the community on Skid Row became not a cure, but a practice of return.

His remarkable artistry is then showcased in a live performance with Gupta playing works that resonate with introspection, rhythmic vitality, and emotional transparency, reflecting his own unique journey embracing resilience, creative reinvention, advocacy, and belonging.

The program, part of Sierra Madre Playhouse’s inaugural authors series, concludes with a Q&A and book signing, providing an opportunity for audience members to connect directly with Gupta.

For tickets ($35; includes book) and information, please call 626.355.4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org. Sierra Madre Playhouse is located at 87 West Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre, CA 91024.