A passion for piano, health and healing has inspired Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School student Alexandra Bartetzko to change lives through the power of music.
The 16-year-old has combined interests in music and science, setting her sights on a career in music therapy and drawing inspiration from the likes of Beethoven, Einstein and Leonardo de Vinci.
Alex will represent Ipswich at the National Youth Science Forum at Canberra in January where she hopes to set strong foundations for Year 12 studies before advancing to university.
“In the future I hope to help people of all ages live their best life through music therapy,” the Sinnamon Park resident said.
“Music therapy is different from music education and entertainment as it focuses on health, functioning and wellbeing.
“Music therapists are committed to supporting people of any age and ability regardless of musical skill, culture or background.
“The faster the world becomes, the more important the practice of music becomes.
“Music remains one of the most effective ways to train the brain, to connect people to their communities and to heal the soul.
“With the guidance of the National Youth Science Forum I want to create a successful future which fuses both music and science and allows me to help others.”
WATCH: Alexandra Bartetzko performs at last month’s Queensland Conservatorium Showcase Series.
Alex said some of history’s great thinkers were musicians.
“Every human is practically the same, we all have organs and bones and a brain, but we are all also unique and special in our own way,” she said.
“Beethoven lost his hearing in his later life, but he could still compose wonderful pieces. Despite his sensory barrier, he could still express himself through music.
“Einstein was a musician and Leonardo de Vinci was a musician. In fact, many of the world’s leaders once learnt a musical instrument.
“Music activates many areas of the brain when you are creating or enjoying it. The activation of all regions of the brain stimulates growth and development.”
Piano recitals at Brisbane’s Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital inspired Alex to bring joy, hope and healing to other people’s lives.
“To me music therapy means helping babies like little Elliot who I met last year at Lady Cilento,” she said.
“Elliot was about one and a half and had never left the hospital. In total he spent 401 days in hospital.
“I have now played for Elliot twice and I learnt from his father that making music was one of Elliot’s favorite times.
“That was one of the moments when I knew if I had the ability to help people like Elliot through the two things I love – music and science – I would live a truly happy life.”
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