Music is more than just a passion for Alexandra Moir; it’s a way of being present for others in their most vulnerable moments.
A classically trained musician, Alexandra began playing piano at four. Early on, she discovered music has the power to heal. Today, as a music therapist with Nova Scotia Health, she uses that power to bring comfort, joy and meaning to patients and families during life’s most challenging moments.
“Music is innate to who I am,” says Alexandra. “I initially thought I’d go into teaching, but when I learned about music therapy, I realized I could use something I love to help people in profound ways.”
Alexandra’s path to Nova Scotia Health began during her studies at Acadia University, where she first encountered music therapy. A placement on the palliative care unit at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax solidified her passion. “I loved the hospital environment ever since,” she recalls. “I like knowing what’s going on with patients, being part of an interdisciplinary team and being there for such a variety of people. I really wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.”
Now, as a music therapist in palliative care, Alexandra spends her days bringing music to patients and their families in deeply personal ways. “Music therapy isn’t about performing, it’s about meeting people where they are,” she explains. “Sometimes it’s helping someone relax to ease pain or anxiety. Other times, it’s creating a space for families to connect when words fail. And sometimes, it’s about accompanying someone through the end-of-life process with compassion.”
Alexandra’s toolkit includes guitar, harp, piano and her singing voice, but her most important gift is her ability to listen and adapt. “Every day is different,” she says. “One moment, I might be playing Prince for a younger patient, and the next, I’m playing older music for someone who wants to reminisce. It’s all about what they need in that moment.”
Music activates multiple areas of the brain, making it a powerful tool for addressing physical, emotional and spiritual needs. “Music can help with pain, anxiety, grief and even social interaction,” Alexandra explains. “For someone dealing with pain, familiar music can provide comfort and distraction. For families, it gives them a way to connect and share memories.”
One of the rewarding parts of Alexandra’s work is knowing she’s making a difference during a deeply challenging time. “In palliative care, we’re helping people have the best possible end-of-life experience,” she says. “It’s about creating moments of joy, connection and peace, even in the face of loss.”
Another meaningful aspect of her work is the trust patients place in her during their most vulnerable moments. “I’ve had patients who are saying ‘no’ to everyone else but saying ‘yes’ to me,” she says. “When their days are nearing the end, that’s a big deal. It’s an honour to be let in during those moments and to provide comfort when it’s needed most.”
As Nova Scotia Health celebrates Music Therapy Month, Alexandra hopes to raise awareness about the profession and its potential to transform lives. “Music therapy is so versatile,” she says. “There’s so many ways in which music can help. It’s about meeting people where they are and walking alongside them with compassion.”
For those considering a career in music therapy, Alexandra offers this advice: “It’s a deeply rewarding path. You get to use something you love to make a difference in the world. At Nova Scotia Health, you’re a part of a supportive team that values what you do.”
As Alexandra continues her work, she remains inspired by her patients and the power of music. “Music has this incredible ability to bring people together, to heal and to create meaning,” she says. “It’s about being present for people in their most vulnerable moments and offering the comfort they need. That’s what makes this work so meaningful.”
Photo of Alexandra Moir.
