A Definition Of Music Therapy


Music is an important part of our lives, whether we notice it or not. Some people enjoy music everyday, feeling that this is the only way they could escape daily stress. Others notice the effect of music rarely, but they certainly agree that it has a strong impact on their soul. They cannot savor this activity too frequently because lack of time. It is a general truth: our existence has its own musical line.

Music has the power to heal, and this was demonstrated in times gone by. The Holy Bible contains an interesting episode about David playing his harp to cure King Saul of depression. Even Plato and Aristotle, the two great Greek philosophers, spoke in their works about the effect that music had on human soul, behavior and health. In the first years after World War I music therapy gain its recognition as an independent discipline. The clinics where wounded soldiers lied were frequently visited by different artists, trying to find a way to ease their pain. As a consequence, the hospital stuff noticed that the patients’ state of health improved each day. Soon, musicians were legally hired to entertain the suffering persons. The first music therapy degree was available, in 1944, at Michigan State University.

As time passed by the techniques used in music therapy diversified. In function of the patient’s needs specialists operate with various elements, like rhythm, melody, harmony and sound. Music has positive effect on those suffering of stress and it can ease pain. Communication and memory problems can be also partially solved with the adequate melodic line. Even more, music therapy can be used in ameliorating immunity issues or in the treatment of persons diagnosed with cancer, autism and low blood pressure. It seems that the method gained field, thus a lot of dentists became its sympathizers and create a relaxing atmosphere for their patients.

After evaluating the patients, music therapists decide upon the techniques that are going to be used. The most common are listening to music or singing. But there are some efficient alternatives like debating on the lyrics, or writing some, playing instruments or creating music. Very positive outcomes were registered with people suffering of dementia after a singing session. They are practically compelled to talk about their emotions and thoughts. Persons who endured a stroke may be determined to improve their talking abilities. Singing can also bring good results in breathing difficulties.

Instruments are also a significant part of music therapy. The method is used with persons with neurological problems, encouraging them to coordinate their movements. Compelling patients to compose their own music and lyrics eases communication and enhances brain activity.

The most significant method seems to be listening to music. It may help patients to recall important aspects from their past. Specialists frequently use this technique with people suffering of mental problems to determine them to get involved in social activities or to improve their attention.

You may find music therapy as a great possibility of changing your career. Take your stand and start learning all about music. If you want to be the one who plays music for patients, than maybe the piano is the best choice. It is very easy to learn playing it with the DecPlay method. Take some courses in music therapy and practice it.

Start to learn to play piano using the easiest methods of all – DecPlay.