Shining Stars Artist Spotlight: Ashley Stewart
Next up in our artist spotlight is Ashley Stewart. Here she is, in her own words:
A Life Written in Music: Finding Strength Beyond Disability
Music has been more than a talent or profession; it has been my refuge, my voice, and a constant source of comfort throughout a life shaped by disability, resilience, and creativity.
My name is Ashley Stewart-Alpe and this is my story.
My musical journey began at four years old, when my mother enrolled me in piano lessons so I could eventually play for our small local church. As a high-functioning autistic child, I found comfort in the familiarity and routine of practising. By age five, I was competing locally and beyond, earning numerous awards and bursaries that helped fund my musical education despite my family's financial limitations.
At fourteen, I was diagnosed with SLE lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and lung complications. Later, a seizure disorder brought additional challenges. As chronic illness took me away from sports and other activities I loved, music became an anchor—a place where I could focus and find stability when life felt unpredictable.
I pursued my passion through the Royal Conservatory of Music, earning my Intermediate ARCT credentials, and went on to teach and perform professionally.
My name is Ashley Stewart-Alpe and this is my story.
My musical journey began at four years old, when my mother enrolled me in piano lessons so I could eventually play for our small local church. As a high-functioning autistic child, I found comfort in the familiarity and routine of practising. By age five, I was competing locally and beyond, earning numerous awards and bursaries that helped fund my musical education despite my family's financial limitations.
At fourteen, I was diagnosed with SLE lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and lung complications. Later, a seizure disorder brought additional challenges. As chronic illness took me away from sports and other activities I loved, music became an anchor—a place where I could focus and find stability when life felt unpredictable.
I pursued my passion through the Royal Conservatory of Music, earning my Intermediate ARCT credentials, and went on to teach and perform professionally.
In my twenties, I lost my vision due to medical complications associated with a prescribed medication. For the next ten years, I navigated life without sight, continuing to teach and perform, including playing internationally. During this time, I also volunteered teaching music to children at an orphanage in the
Philippines, sharing the gift that had brought me so much comfort and purpose.
Blindness changed how I experienced the world, but it did not take away my ability to connect with others through music. I regained my vision during my second pregnancy, but my other health challenges
remain. Today, playing can cause significant pain in my hands and arms, yet I continue because music is inseparable from who I am.
For me, music is more than the notes on a page. It is the spirit of creativity flowing through my body, a familiar warmth, and a place of safety when life feels overwhelming. My disability has changed what I can do, but it has not diminished my love for music or my desire to share it with others.
I am a musician, teacher, and disabled woman whose journey reminds me that creativity can endure even when our abilities change. My body may have limitations, but music remains a part of my story—and as long as there is a melody within me, there will always be something left to share.
Philippines, sharing the gift that had brought me so much comfort and purpose.
Blindness changed how I experienced the world, but it did not take away my ability to connect with others through music. I regained my vision during my second pregnancy, but my other health challenges
remain. Today, playing can cause significant pain in my hands and arms, yet I continue because music is inseparable from who I am.
For me, music is more than the notes on a page. It is the spirit of creativity flowing through my body, a familiar warmth, and a place of safety when life feels overwhelming. My disability has changed what I can do, but it has not diminished my love for music or my desire to share it with others.
I am a musician, teacher, and disabled woman whose journey reminds me that creativity can endure even when our abilities change. My body may have limitations, but music remains a part of my story—and as long as there is a melody within me, there will always be something left to share.
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