Alberta’s passion and dedication for sharing her music has not only led her to a decade long journey at the prestigious The Julliard School in New York but has seen this commitment extend to some unconventional performance settings.

The world of music began at a remarkably young age for Alberta, picking up her first guitar at just 3 1/2. Under the guidance of several inspirational teachers, she was given the space to learn about music, play pieces she was curious about and to take risks to expand her abilities.

Albera’s academic journey has included both a bachelor's and master's degree and is currently pursuing a doctoral program in guitar.

"I'm now going into my 10th year at Juilliard," she proudly shared. “I asked them to create a guitar program, something that hadn’t previously existed at Juilliard and they supported me in doing that. I am extremely grateful"

Performing in non-traditional settings

Alberta's musical talents extend beyond the traditional concert stage. Sharing her music in healthcare settings. Her commitment to this unique endeavour was fuelled by a desire to bring comfort and joy to those who needed it most.

"I think there's just so much more to it than the traditional classical setting. It's just about being creative," she said. Her guitar, equipped with a strap, allows her to move freely and connect more intimately with her audience.

A recent visit to HammondCare’s Greenwich Hospital demonstrated the profound impact music could have on individuals. She recalled an emotional moment during a performance, saying, "I saw one of the doctors or nurses. She was crying. She was really happy to feel that kind of connection."

Performing in healthcare settings was driven by a deep desire to give back and connect with people through her music. She started by playing in quieter areas of The Juilliard School before expanding her outreach to places like Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and HammondCare’s Greenwich Hospital where she saw the potential for her music to make a positive impact.

"It was nice to see everyone come together in that moment. It sometimes hard to go and play in places like hospitals, just because of the environment that it is, but I like those spaces and getting close to the patients and playing for them. It is a stressful environment, and it’s nice to infuse some brightness in their day."

There was a special moment in the dining area where Alberta played. A patient requested green sleeves, which Alberta played on the spot and everyone applauded. 

“Everyone got out of their own head space and then clapped along and enjoyed it.”

Taking the language of music to the people

Alberta's unique approaches to her musical performances allow her to play while walking and engaging with her audience directly. "It connects better with people," she noted. "I found it easier to access more nooks and crannies."

Her goal was to recapture the spirit of serenading, a tradition dating back to the Renaissance era when music was intimately woven into everyday life.

Alberta’s also seen how her music transcends cultural boundaries and the positive impact of music in different parts of the world. "In the non-Western world, they're a bit freer with their music," she observed. Her experiences at The Juilliard School and in healthcare settings had taught her that music was a universal language that could bring people together.

Alberta's vision for the future is clear – to continue sharing her passion and talent with the world. Whether through performances, collaborations, or innovative approaches to music, she remains committed to making the world a better place through the power of her music.