Paolo Paolantonio

Paolo Paolantonio is a researcher at the Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana with a focus on community music programs and their impact on health and well-being. He earned his PhD from the Royal College of Music (London) in 2017 with the thesis Music in the Community: Investigating the Effects of Group Music Making Programs on Older Adults and Higher Education Music Students. His work bridges music education with healthcare innovation through projects like Art for Ages and Music and Words, which have been recognized as best practices by institutions such as the Baring Foundation (UK) and the IBSA Foundation.

• Academic Affiliation: Researcher at Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana
• Expertise: Community music, arts-based health interventions, aging populations

His research explores how musical engagement enhances physical, psychological, and social well-being in elderly populations while simultaneously benefiting participating musicians. Current projects include:

• Music Park: Multidisciplinary collaboration with Swiss Red Cross, Cantonal Hospital Association, and Hildebrand Clinic
• Randomized Parkinson Study: Investigating music's therapeutic effects in partnership with biomedical institutions
• Co-creation Programs: Expanding access to music through social innovation initiatives

Scientific Recognition:

• 2021: Best practice example in Arts and Culture in every care home? (Baring Foundation)
• 2021: IBSA Foundation award for case study on music and health
• 2022: National grant from Swiss Association for Social Innovation with Innosuisse