The Musical Brain:
Neuroscience and classical music 
| Britten Theatre London

Dr Marianna Kapsetaki

Medical doctor, neuroscientist, and classical pianist. Forbes '30 under 30'

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Following her Medical Degree (1st Hons), she obtained a MSc (Distinction) in Performing Arts Medicine from University College London, a PhD in Neuroscience from Imperial College London, and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at University College London. She has been presented with over 100 honorary awards and scholarships that include: 1st prize in 12 international and national piano competitions, the Hilda Martindale UK Award, the British Association of Performing Arts Medicine Award, the UNESCO Medal, the J.Tzonker Young Musician Award, and the Citizens of Honour Awards for her musical and academical achievements from the Municipality of Hersonissos Crete. In 2021 she was included in the Forbes '30 under 30' Europe list. She was selected as scholar of the following foundations: Onassis Foundation, Greek State Foundation, Leventis Foundation, Bodossakis Foundation, L.Voudouri Foundation, E.Schillizi Foundation, Estia Neas Smirnis Foundation, Sir Richard Stapley Educational Trust, GEMMA Classical Music Trust, Athens Megaron Music Friends Society and ‘World in Harmony’ Association conferred by HRH Princess Irene at the Gina Bachauer Awards. Marianna has performed over 160 concerts to date appearing at major venues.

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During my research for the Music-Mind-Textile project, I had the privilege of discovering Dr. Marianna Kapsetaki's remarkable music performance "The Musical Brain at the Britten Theatre. Her exceptional talent and insights greatly inspired my understanding of the profound impact of music on the mind, particularly the brain. I am thrilled to extend an invitation to Dr. Kapsetaki's adviser to join our project. Her presentation beautifully exemplified the merging of science and music, shedding light on the intricate memory skills required for complex compositions, the influence of stage fright on brain chemistry, and the numerous benefits derived from dedicated practice in both her music career and medical profession. The seamless integration of her captivating performances and her insightful research into the brain regions involved in piano playing truly showcased the captivating field of neuroscience in music.

 

Through the "Inner Peace" Pavilion at the Biennale, the Music-Mind-Textile project offers individuals a platform to embark on a profound journey of self-exploration, finding solace, and nurturing resilience. It is our belief that by combining the therapeutic potential of music, textile design, and neuroscience, we can create a transformative experience that fosters well-being and empowers individuals to navigate the intricacies of their inner selves. We eagerly anticipate the collaboration with Dr. Kapsetaki's adviser, as their expertise will undoubtedly enrich our project and contribute to "Inner Peace" in promoting mindfulness, neurodiversity, and mental health through the interplay of music, textile design, and neuroscience. __ Project curator : Amelia Peng 

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