Ep 86 Holly Shirra

Holly Shirra is a qualified music therapist who holds her focus
on helping people connect in community and express themselves
creatively and authentically. With classical piano training from
a young age, Holly discovered a passion for free improvisation
while studying music therapy, which she completed in 2020.


To help her understand further how people spontaneously create in
groups, Holly founded 'Cambridge Music Improv' - a community
project that gathers people from diverse backgrounds in public
spaces to improvise music together. This supportive environment
allows participants to tap into their creative side and find
catharsis and self-expression while building connections with
others.


Alongside her community work, Holly has extensive experience in
musical education, teaching piano to children since the age of
15. She continues to share her love of music through teaching as
a regular part of her work.


In her spare time these days, Holly likes to find balance through
cooking, rock climbing, meditation, and spending time in
nature. 


Here is a link to Holly's documentary about the group:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38w-ygwKaIY&t=43s