MUSIC THERAPY

What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a professional discipline that utilizes music to achieve therapeutic aims. Music Therapists use music to accomplish student goals, both musical and non musical. Music therapy programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of each student. Therapists work with children and adults who may have: learning disabilities, autism, brain injury, or sensory and physical impairments. The therapist develops a musical relationship with the student involving communication, listening, and sharing. Students develop a greater awareness of themselves in relation to others, resulting in improved relationships and communication. It can also greatly enhance self-esteem.

Who can benefit from Music Therapy?

Children and adolescents with learning and physical disabilities; or those with behavioral challenges and developmental delays, like speech disorders. Children who have sensory integration impairment also benefit from Music Therapy. Adults and the elderly with physical and mental health needs such as: Alzheimer's, brain injuries; or who suffer from acute and chronic pain.

What do Music Therapists do?

Music Therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, ability to communicate, social behavior, and cognitive skills through the individuals responses to music. Music Therapists next set goals and objectives to meet the needs of the individual patient. A weekly curriculum plan is then designed and implemented with appropriate musical activities such as singing, instrumental play, music improvisation and listening. These sessions are followed up with ongoing evaluations.

How is Music Therapy utilized in schools?

Music learning is used to stengthen non musical areas such as communication and cognitive skills as well as physical coordination. Music therapists provide services listed on the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for mainstreamed special learners.

"Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel. If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children's education."
—Yo Yo Ma

Music Therapy

"Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel. If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children's education." —Yo Yo Ma

"Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel. If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children's education."
—Yo Yo Ma