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Bach in the Dark: Rachel’s musical fundraiser for Parkinson’s
Friday, 4th April 2025
This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, professional cellist and concert series founder Rachel Scott has turned her musical talents into a moving tribute and fundraiser for Parkinson’s research.
Rachel, who leads the Bach in the Dark concert series, is live-streaming a special Playing for Parkinson’s concert on Saturday 12 April at 7pm, bringing together a cast of incredible musicians and an audience united by a shared cause. It’s a project driven by personal connections to Parkinson’s, including her friend Catherine—whose mother lives with the disease—and the memory of a treasured supporter and friend, Bert, who also had Parkinson’s and helped Rachel purchase her beloved 18th-century cello, Harold.
We spoke with Rachel about her inspiration for the fundraiser and her deep commitment to research.
Please tell us all about your fundraising challenge
I am a professional cellist that runs a concert series called ‘Bach in the Dark’, and play concerts regularly, with my musician friends. So we decided that we’d live-stream a Playing for Parkinson’s concert on Saturday April 12, at 7pm. (The stream will also stay up for a week after the concert, so if you are busy that night, you can watch it at a time that works for you.)
I am lucky enough to be the care-taker of a beautiful cello made in the mid-1700’s that I call Harold. I adore this cello, and playing on it is an absolute joy. When I found him (my cello), although I had some money set aside, it wasn’t enough. Due to a VERY generous loan from someone I could afford to buy it. This person used to come to every concert he could. He was a Parkinson’s sufferer, and died a few years ago. Every time I play Harold, I think of him and his incredible support and generosity. So it seemed fitting that I play a concert to honour him, honour my friend’s Mum, and raise some money for ‘Shake It Up’. I am delighted that so many of my artist friends have agreed to join me to play – some travelling interstate. There’ll be all kinds of classical music – guitar, flute, cello, accordion, spoken word – there’ll be something for everyone.
There’s no ‘ticket price’ as such – you just pay what you can. So far, audience members of the concert series, colleagues and friends have been incredibly generous. I’ve also been honoured enough to hear stories from people who have donated – telling me about family members who have, or have had Parkinson’s, or their struggle with the disease. It’s been a very special lead-up to the concert.
What inspires your commitment to fundraise for Parkinson’s research?
I know there is no cure. But I also know that scientists are working tirelessly to try and find one – climbing a huge mountain. And I figured that with the help of some friends I can make a little bit of a difference. Because, after all, a mountain is built from lots of little stones. I’m happy to be one of those stones!
Why did you choose to support Shake It Up?
My friend, Catherine, raises money for Shake It Up. And lots of people spoke really highly of the organisation when I was looking into things. I love that all donations go directly to research. I feel like it’s a really good way to use ALL the money we raise to help as much as that money can. AND the team have been amazing in their help! Thank you!
What is your advice for others wanting to make a difference?
A very dear friend once told me that I can’t change the world – but I can change the world around me. And so that is what I’m trying to do here. We stand on the shoulders of others. Together, we CAN change things. I am inspired by Parkinson’s sufferers – their dignity, and their courage. And I am inspired by their families who support and love and struggle with them. Together, we can all help.
Help Rachel make a difference
Rachel’s concert is part of a growing movement this Parkinson’s Awareness Month—Australians coming together to raise funds for research and honour loved ones living with the condition.
Every donation to Shake It Up goes directly to cutting-edge Australian research, in partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation. Support Rachel’s concert or start your own fundraiser today.
🎻 Donate to Rachel’s fundraiser or host your own event for Parkinson’s Awareness Month!
