Every note tells a story, and for Caboolture’s Rachel Aberdein, music has always been a way to connect with the world around her. From the gentle tinkling of her childhood Casio keyboard to the soaring melodies of her emerging compositions, Rachel’s life reflects the transformative power of music.
Discovering her love for melody as a child in New Zealand, where she would explore the whimsical world of sound, Rachel’s passion grew stronger when she moved to Australia at nine years old, her school’s music program igniting her creative spark.
Rachel’s family’s rich musical background played a significant role in shaping her journey. “My mother plays the piano and ukulele, and my grandfather taught himself the organ,” she shared. “My grandfather played by ear for decades until my mother taught him to read music.”
Overcoming Challenges and Composing Success
Rachel’s unique ability to transform everyday sounds captured during her walks into musical masterpieces despite navigating coordination challenges as an autistic individual is inspirational.
“There are some fascinating bird sounds near my home, and if you slow them down, they’re incredibly complex,” she explained as she shared her creative process for her latest composition, which features a soprano saxophone, bass clarinet, and piano. “I start by choosing sounds based on vibes. After playing around, I impose more structure on my work.”
“My brain sometimes resists, even when I want to compose,” Rachel confessed, sharing the challenges of composing with Autism. To combat this, she dedicates half an hour daily to writing music, incentivising herself with a clever savings plan for her dream of visiting Australia’s capital cities. “I set aside one dollar each day I compose, and if I compose every day during a pay week, I set aside 10% of my pay for travel,” she added.
Rachel’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. After performing a piece that combined clarinet and electronic sounds at the Moreton Bay Symphony Orchestra’s small ensemble night, she received enthusiastic feedback.
Having already composed four symphonies, Rachel is excited about writing a piano concerto. “I’ve never done a piano concerto before, and I can’t wait to start,” she expressed, her ambition shining through.
For aspiring composers, Rachel has a simple piece of advice: “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Not everything will be a masterpiece, and that’s okay. Just sit down and write.”
To learn more about Rachel Aberdein’s inspiring journey and listen to her music, visit Youtube channel here.
Read more stories from The Caboolture Guide print magazine here:
- Creating a Space for Everyone: Centenary Lakes is Transforming
- P Weet-Bix Slice
- Sneak Peek Inside Dakabin’s $35M Hotel
- E4TS Christmas Party Welcomes Everyone
- Bust The Holiday Boredom
- Enjoy an Easy-Going Cycling Adventure on the Wamuran Rail Trail
- All Smiles and Positive Vibes for New Paediatrics Team
- Caboolture Connect
