What is Music Therapy ?
“Music Therapy is the use of sounds and music within an evolving relationship between patient/participant and therapist to support and encourage physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.”
-Bunt and Stige from Music Therapy: An Art Beyond Words (2014)
Community band performing as part of a celebration of ‘international day for persons with disabilities 2023’ (Thank you to the band for providing permission to share this image)
Music Therapy is an established allied health profession with a rich history and scientific base to support its use in improving wellbeing.
After an assessment of the strengths and needs of participants a music therapist facilitates personalised ways of creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music.
Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, participants abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy is a useful form of communication that can be especially helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words.
Who is Music Therapy For?
Music Therapy can be for everyone and anyone regardless of musical ability and at any stage of life. There is an abundance of research to suggest music therapy is a beneficial therapeutic intervention for many populations of people.