I’ve been thinking for a while that I wanted to start writing blogs. Not long, complicated pieces filled with jargon, but something people can actually enjoy reading with a chance to understand a little more about Signing Music Therapist work, learn more about music therapy, and discover some of the things we support and get involved in.
When people hear music therapy, they sometimes ask:
“So… do you just play music?”
Well… yes and no!
Music is at the heart of what we do, but music therapy is so much more than simply singing songs or playing instruments. It is about using music intentionally within a therapeutic relationship to support people in ways that are meaningful to them.
And sometimes, it even involves a rather wonderful homemade foot piano!
So, what is Music Therapy?
The World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT) has recently revised its description of music therapy, and I think it captures beautifully how broad and adaptable our profession is:
Music therapy is a professional discipline that uses music-based experiences, such as listening, singing, playing instruments or improvisation, to promote health, well-being, capacity and development at a personal and social level. It is delivered by trained professionals within a therapeutic relationship and is an adaptable, inclusive, therapeutic modality that serves individuals, groups and communities across clinical, educational, cultural and virtual settings. Music therapy practice is research-based, shaped by professional education and clinical training, guided by ethical responsibility and informed by social, cultural and political context.
There is a lot packed into those words! For me, “adaptable” and “inclusive” are particularly important. Music can meet people where they are. One person might enjoy singing, another might communicate through rhythm, while someone else may prefer listening, movement, instruments or improvisation.
For Signing Music Therapist, communication is another important part. Music, signing, gesture, rhythm, facial expression and movement can all become part of the therapeutic experience. Ultimately, it is about finding ways to connect.
Taking music therapy into the community
Recently, we took part in three fantastic community events: NeuroSisters at NeuroFest in Canvey Island, Essex, a Free Family Fun Day in Great Baddow, Essex, and a Wellness Event in Hockley, Essex.
Each event gave us a wonderful opportunity to meet people, chat about music therapy, answer questions and raise awareness of what we do.
At NeuroFest in Canvey Island, we were also fortunate to meet and speak with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Canvey Island, which was a really lovely experience. At the Free Family Fun Day in Great Baddow, our homemade foot piano, made by my husband, really came into its own! It was enjoyed by children and adults alike. Watching people stop, have a go, laugh and make music together was brilliant. The Wellness Event in Hockley was another great opportunity to connect with people and share more about the benefits and possibilities of music therapy.
All three events were great fun and successful, and I really enjoyed meeting so many people.
Supporting something special
We also had the opportunity to support The Tale of Lucky, the Tiptree Chicken, written by Melissa Ford. This lovely book has been created to support and raise funds for seven-year-old Alexander, helping towards his specialist therapies, equipment and future adaptations.
Projects like this are incredibly important, and it was a pleasure to be involved and help raise awareness.
And now… back to music therapy!
These events have reminded me just how powerful music can be in bringing people together.
Music therapy is about connection, communication, expression, participation and wellbeing and there are so many different ways that music can support people.
This is exactly why I wanted to start writing these blogs: to share more about Signing Music Therapist, explain what music therapy really involves, and give people a glimpse into the work we do and the communities we support.
And after a busy summer of events, music therapy sessions are now back in full swing! It’s lovely to be back to familiar faces, familiar routines and, of course, making music together.
So, it’s back to routines again with plenty of music, signing, creativity, connection and laughter along the way.
And who knows what the next musical adventure will bring?
Watch this space!