Former Cranston resident Dr. Rudy Tanzi, who was previously featured in the Cranston Herald for his groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s disease, also leads the life of a musician when he can. He is the director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital, and a professor at Harvard Medical School. He is also an accomplished musician, playing both keyboard and harmonica. He is pictured with Joe Perry, guitarist of Aerosmith, during a recording session with band. Tanzi was named a “Rock Star of Science” in 2009, and through that honor he was paired with Perry, whose family has been affected by Alzheimer’s. The two became friends, and Tanzi played on Aerosmith’s latest album. Tanzi has also performed with Jay Leno’s band and at Muhammad Ali’s 70th birthday party. (Submitted photo)