Music Therapy can benefit us all. It does not discriminate against sex, race or religion, and is one place where people can come together and bridge age, disability and class.
A Music Therapist is trained to respond to the needs of individuals during the musical process. This doesn't mean you have to be a virtuoso, it means you have to be aware of the nature of music and the growth the musical process can inspire whilst 'in flow'. Aspects that can be developed through this music-making process can directly benefit the client, such as increasing awareness - particularly something that is of concern when working with children and adults with learning difficulties. You can help non-verbal people express their emotions through play by allowing them the opportunity to exert anger, sorrow and even happiness through the instruments. The instruments act as a translator, a safe go-between for people to express themselves and let out in a healthy and controlled way.
Community Music Therapy that takes place 'in the now' can help people taking part by bringing them together in a shared 'safe place' where they don't feel judged. It's not about playing the right notes, its about giving it a go and exploring the world together.
Music Therapy can be used as a non-medical intervention to help many different aspects of a person's health and social needs. We are fond believers that a person’s sense of identity relates directly to how music helps them express themselves and that creativity can impact directly on their health and wellbeing. Therefore music has huge potential to change views and inspire people to feel empowered and have a voice. Music motivates us, helps us express the inexpressible… and has been a part of the world’s culture since the beginning of time and something that continually grows!
Nordoff-Robbins Approach
There are many definitions and styles of Music Therapy. Our approach is inspired and derived from the trainings of our very own Music Therapists who were trained at the world-renowned Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Centre in London. This approach is known as 'Creative Music Therapy'.
“Nordoff-Robbins music therapy is grounded in the belief that everyone can respond to music, no matter how ill or disabled. It holds that the unique qualities of music as therapy can enhance communication, support change, and enable people to live more resourcefully and creatively.”
Useful Links
There are a number of places that you can find out more about music therapy; including information for those wishing to study music therapy, who music therapy can help and how, and the history of the development of different types of music therapy and current research that shows it efficacy.
Nordoff-Robbins Website - https://www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk
British Association for Music Therapy - http://www.bamt.org
The Music Therapy Charity - http://www.musictherapy.org.uk
Health & Care Professionals Council - http://www.hcpc-uk.org