Celebrating
Neurodiversity
Nat Bartsch is proudly neurodivergent, and part of the enormous wave of late-diagnosed autistic/ADHD women and artists discovering their true selves. Nat believes that her neurodiversity is at the heart of her music and the reason for its emotive, regulating effect for many listeners. Every neurodivergent person is different, with a unique patchwork of skills and abilities and passionate interests, and areas where extra support is needed (in a world designed for neurotypicals). Nat passionately believes that neurodiversity is a superpower, and with our needs met, our talents can thrive. In 2024 Nat has focussed on performing, consulting and connecting with more neurodivergent audiences and musicians, creating ways to engage with music that seek to consider the unique needs of neurodivergent people.
Nat recently delivered the annual Peggy Glanville Hicks address, for Australian Music Centre, on the theme of late-diagnosed neurodiversity and music.
Forever Changed
In November 2024, Nat released a long-awaited new album of lullabies, Forever Changed. Whilst her original album, Forever, and No Time At All, was designed to support young families (as well as music lovers in general), Forever Changed explores ways to create music that may be regulating and soothing for neurodivergent people of all ages (both on the recorded album, and live). This immersive project, featuring extensive ambient effects and solo piano, was premiered in a Relaxed performance setting at Melbourne Recital Centre (including a 6pm show for ND adults) and further performances are in planning for 2025.
Artist Meet Ups
Across Melbourne in 2024, Nat hosted a series of Artist Meet Ups, bringing together neurodivergent members of the music industry. These informal get togethers connected many like minded musicians, in an event designed to accomodate a variety of communication styles, sensory and access needs.
Sign up to Nat’s neurodiversity mailing list to be kept in touch about future events and resources.