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Interview with Dr. Silvia Bartolozzi, Pediatrician: the role of Music in Medicine


In this interview, Dr Silvia Bartolozzi, Italian pediatrician, talks to us about the connection between medicine and music. She graduated with honours in Medicine and Surgery and specialised with honours in Paediatrics. She then expanded her expertise with a specialisation in Anaesthesia and Resuscitation, as well as several postgraduate degrees in the medical-health field. She is also a certified IRC (Italian Resuscitation Council) instructor, with particular experience in paediatric airway obstruction manoeuvres and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (BLSD). Thanks to her extensive training and expertise, Dr Bartolozzi has also paid close attention to the positive effects that music can have in the medical and healthcare sectors, especially on children’s cognitive, emotional and social development. In this interview, she tells us how music can be a powerful therapeutic and developmental tool, and what role it can play in the daily lives of children in an age increasingly dominated by screens and digital devices. She also offers advice for anyone passionate about both science and music. Enjoy!


Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to become a paediatrician?

I am a paediatrician with over 30 years of experience, 27 of which I spent working in hospitals. I graduated with honours in Medicine and Surgery and specialised with honours in Paediatrics. Later, I expanded my skills with a specialisation in Anaesthesia and Resuscitation, along with several postgraduate degrees in the medical-health field. I am also a certified IRC (Italian Resuscitation Council) instructor, with particular expertise in paediatric airway obstruction manoeuvres and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (BLSD).

One of the things that inspired me to become a paediatrician is the fact that, unlike adults, children often cannot clearly express what they are feeling. This requires a doctor to have a special capacity for observation, intuition, and empathy. Children do not have filters or social conditioning. They either like you or they do not. That makes the relationship very authentic and direct. I find this challenge fascinating. Being able to create a sincere bond that goes beyond words to truly understand how to help them is extremely rewarding.


From a medical perspective, how can music positively impact a child’s cognitive, emotional or social development?

Many studies show that structured musical programmes can improve cognitive development, especially in areas such as memory and spatial-temporal reasoning. For example, one study on children aged four to six found that those involved in a music programme with parental participation showed significant improvements in memory-related tasks. Music also supports emotional regulation and social bonding, especially in early childhood, when rhythm and melody help children process emotions and connect with others. Additionally, it facilitates the learning of foreign languages.


We are witnessing a major shift in how children interact with media. While they used to access structured, safe and educational platforms like Disney Channel (which also offered a lot of musical content), today they increasingly consume short, highly stimulating content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The disappearance of Disney Channel and similar channels in many countries, which once offered shared cultural touchstones and reassuring content for children and parents, left a gap in how young people learn, relate to the world and find role models.


What are your concerns about the amount of time children spend in front of screens today? Can music help restore some balance?

Unfortunately, this new digital environment has been linked to negative outcomes. Numerous studies show that excessive screen time can contribute to language delays, attention problems including ADHD-like symptoms, reduced physical activity and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Screens have become a substitute for communication in many families. It is common to see children given iPads or phones during meals or outings just to keep them quiet. While this might be a temporary solution for parents, it risks reducing essential human interaction and emotional development.


This is where music comes in. Music offers a powerful, screen-free way to stimulate the brain, foster creativity and encourage emotional expression. Normally, it does not overstimulate as much as  frantic digital content. I often recommend musical play as a healthy alternative to passive screen time. Whether it is singing together, dancing, learning an instrument, or simply listening actively, music encourages movement, communication, and connection. We live in modern times, so a moderate use of screens is sometimes inevitable and acceptable, but it must be intentional and balanced. I always urge parents to go out with their children, talk to them, play, listen to music they both enjoy, and most importantly, be present. Mealtimes, for example, should be moments of sharing, not scrolling. Childhood is a crucial phase for emotional and cognitive development, and nothing can replace real interaction and creative exploration. Music is a wonderful and effective tool to help achieve that balance.


How can music support children facing stress, anxiety, or illness? Have you observed specific benefits at work?

Music therapy has been shown to reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, thereby improving immune function. In clinical settings, music has helped children cope with pain, anxiety and even depressive symptoms. Hospitalised children often show better moods and greater cooperation with treatment when they listen to calming or familiar music. I have seen children visibly relax when music is played during exams or procedures.


Have you noticed any differences in how music affects children depending on their age, for example between young children and teenagers?

Definitely. Younger children often respond to music physically. They move, dance, and use it to express emotions. For older children and teenagers, music becomes a tool for identity and emotional expression. It also acts as a social connector.


For neurodivergent children or teens, such as those with ADHD or autism, have you seen specific ways that music engages, calms, or helps them express themselves?

Absolutely. Music can be very therapeutic for neurodivergent children. Rhythmic patterns can support focus in children with ADHD and musical play can encourage communication in non-verbal autistic children. It gives them a way to connect with the world and others without relying solely on words. If chosen carefully, it can also reduce sensory overstimulation. In children with ADHD, for instance, certain types of music can enhance concentration or act as a calming mechanism during transitions or moments of frustration.


Finally, as a “Mediterranean girl in medicine” with a passion for music, and as a doctor who recognises its power, what message would you give to young girls who love both science and the arts, especially music?

Never feel like you have to choose between the two. Science and art are deeply connected. Just think about everything I have shared with you. There are many ways to combine both worlds. Each is about understanding and enriching the human experience. Whether you choose medicine, music or both, if you are truly passionate you can bring something unique to both fields. Our region has a rich scientific and musical heritage. Carry it forward with pride and never be afraid to follow your dreams.


Can you suggest an Italian song you particularly like for our readers?

There are so many, but for this occasion I choose Rewind by Vasco Rossi. It deeply helps me reconnect with the world in both an energising and peaceful way. Viva Vasco!


You can listen to the song suggested by Dr. Silvia Bartolozzi Pediatrician here:



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