Seeking Solace is a compilation of new works by Australia’s leading neo-classical pianists that has been commissioned by The Hush Foundation and curated by Nat Bartsch in support of women experiencing mental health issues.

The exciting new collection of tracks will be released on Friday 12 July.

One in three women in Australia will experience anxiety during their lifetime — an issue that has been exacerbated during the pandemic and led to increased demand for support. Shockingly, women are twice as likely as men to experience depression and four times as likely to experience anxiety.

Dr. Catherine Crock, Founder of the Hush Foundation said: “Last year, the composers visited Cabrini Elsternwick – Women’s Mental Health to listen, reflect, and connect with the experiences of patients. We’re grateful for the stories that were shared with us and hope this album will raise awareness about the importance of women's mental health research, treatment and education.

This experience inspired the compositions for Seeking Solace that aim to reduce stress, anxiety and promote healing, featuring piano talents Nat Bartsch, Thomas Rouch, Sophie Hutchings, Luke Howard, Emily ‘Mirla’ Harrison, Petra Salsjö, Pat Jaffe, Fia Fiell, Leahannah Ceff and collaborators Josh Hooke and Jack Vanzet (Thrupence).

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The album has been curated by Nat Bartsch, a twice ARIA-nominated Australian pianist and composer known for her ethereal, meditative, lyrical music:

“I have always been the kind of musician who wants to soothe troubled hearts and minds with the music they make. As a neurodivergent person, this aspiration comes directly from my own experience of depression, overwhelm and anxiety throughout my life.  Reaching for music in those moments is one of the most accessible and simple things you can do. To curate this album for Hush is a true honour.”

“I believe this album is a timely anthology of Australian neoclassical piano that speaks to the craving we all have for music that can create a sense of calm and solace from anxiety” - Nat Bartsch

Hush has long recognised and advocated for the power of music to reduce stress, anxiety and promote healing and wellbeing in healthcare settings - for patients, their families, and staff alike.

We are all seeking solace and music of this kind has never been more needed.

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