Maggie Bell Composer
Wars, Eruptions, Harmonies and Disharmonies (PhD thesis)
Since 2018, I have been immersed in postgraduate studies in Music Composition at the Queensland Conservatorium of Griffith University. My focus has been on exploring my experiences living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder) through the medium of music composition. As a composer, I am dedicated to expressing my journey through this unique lens.
My PhD thesis, entitled ‘Wars, Eruptions, Harmonies and Disharmonies,’ reflects the inner dynamics of my various dissociated identities (parts/alters) expressed as a series of solo and orchestral works. Different parts or groups of parts within my DID system, which represent the structure of my personality, have composed distinct scores based on their individual experiences, memories, and roles in my mind. This process also integrates elements of music therapy, allowing for a deeper understanding of my identity and experiences.
In this blog, I present a selection of compositions from the process undertaken by the composer Maggie Bell, accompanied by explanatory notes about the themes and ‘conversations’ represented in the music. Each piece will feature the associated scrolling score alongside either live audio or digital recordings. A major goal for this project is to break down the conspiracy of silence surrounding childhood sexual abuse, particularly incestuous abuse, and to provide support for those still suffering from childhood trauma. This initiative also aims to initiate conversations with those who have never before considered the prevalence and ongoing impact of childhood abuse. As someone with experience in music therapy and having studied at the Queensland Conservatorium, I believe that music can play a vital role in healing. Note: when referring to my internal system, the dissociated states, which are often a part of Dissociative Identity Disorder, are referred to as “parts” and will be italicized in this blog.
About Maggie Bell - Composer
Maggie's Bio
Maggie's Bio
Maggie's Bio
Since 2018, I have been immersed in postgraduate studies in Music Composition at the Queensland Conservatorium of Griffith University. My focus has been on exploring my experiences living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder) through the medium of music composition. As a composer, I am
Since 2018, I have been immersed in postgraduate studies in Music Composition at the Queensland Conservatorium of Griffith University. My focus has been on exploring my experiences living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder) through the medium of music composition. As a composer, I am dedicated to expressing my journey through this unique lens.
My PhD thesis, entitled ‘Wars, Eruptions, Harmonies and Disharmonies,’ reflects the inner dynamics of my various dissociated identities (parts/alters) expressed as a series of solo and orchestral works. Different parts or groups of parts within my DID system, which represent the structure of my personality, have composed distinct scores based on their individual experiences, memories, and roles in my mind. This process also integrates elements of music therapy, allowing for a deeper understanding of my identity and experiences.
Solo Scores
Maggie's Bio
Maggie's Bio
In this blog, I present a selection of compositions from the process undertaken by the composer Maggie Bell, accompanied by explanatory notes about the themes and ‘conversations’ represented in the music. Each piece will feature the associated scrolling score alongside either live audio or digital recordings. A major goal for this project
In this blog, I present a selection of compositions from the process undertaken by the composer Maggie Bell, accompanied by explanatory notes about the themes and ‘conversations’ represented in the music. Each piece will feature the associated scrolling score alongside either live audio or digital recordings. A major goal for this project is to break down the conspiracy of silence surrounding childhood sexual abuse, particularly incestuous abuse, and to provide support for those still suffering from childhood trauma. This initiative also aims to initiate conversations with those who have never before considered the prevalence and ongoing impact of childhood abuse. As someone with experience in music therapy and having studied at the Queensland Conservatorium, I believe that music can play a vital role in healing. Note: when referring to my internal system, the dissociated states, which are often a part of Dissociative Identity Disorder, are referred to as “parts” and will be italicized in this blog.
Digital recordings
Solo Work Away with the fairies
Listen here, as we explore the captivating work of composer Maggie Bell, who utilizes music therapy to support individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Her innovative approach is celebrated at the Queensland Conservatorium, where she integrates her musical talents to foster healing.
Orchestral work "Reflect, Reveal, Respond"
Listen here, as we explore the captivating work of composer Maggie Bell, who utilizes music therapy to support individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Her innovative approach is celebrated at the Queensland Conservatorium, where she integrates her musical talents to foster healing.
Orchestral work "Whispers in the Storm"
Listen here, as we explore the captivating work of composer Maggie Bell, who utilizes music therapy to support individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Her innovative approach is celebrated at the Queensland Conservatorium, where she integrates her musical talents to foster healing.
Orchestral work "Rising Beyond the Conspiracy of Silence"
Listen here, as we explore the captivating work of composer Maggie Bell, who utilizes music therapy to support individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Her innovative approach is celebrated at the Queensland Conservatorium, where she integrates her musical talents to foster healing.
Contact Us
Let's Connect
If you would like to contact Maggie Bell, a talented composer with expertise in music therapy and a background from the Queensland Conservatorium, regarding a score, recording, or speaking engagement related to Dissociative Identity Disorder, please drop us a line!
Maggie Bell Composer
