Drawing on her many years as a professional performer and her research-based therapeutic work, Susanna understands first-hand the challenges and pressures of performing. She brings this experience together to help musicians manage performance anxiety, build confidence and perform better.
Originally from London, Susanna studied Natural Sciences, specialising in Psychology at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge University before undertaking postgraduate training in Advanced Music Performance at the Royal Academy of Music, London. As a freelance bassoonist, she performed with most of the leading UK symphony and chamber orchestras before becoming Principal Bassoonist of the Israel Chamber Orchestra.
After more than 20 years as a professional musician, Susanna trained as a music therapist and completed a PhD investigating methods to help musicians reduce music performance anxiety and perform optimally. Her research and clinical work have been presented and published internationally.
Today, Susanna works with musicians of all ages and at every stage of their development. Her approach combines her practical experience as a performer with psychological, therapeutic and research-based perspectives, helping musicians develop the skills and confidence to perform with greater freedom and fulfil their potential.
Alongside a private practice, Susanna teaches performance skills at a specialist music school and is actively involved in research investigating musicians’ wellbeing, aging and health.