most tightly closed heart opens. -Maria Von Trapp "Music is your own experience, your own thoughts, your wisdom. If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn. They teach you there's a boundary line to music. But, man, there's no boundary line to art." - Charlie "YardBird" Parker Music Therapy Definition the systematic application of music by the music therapist to bring about helpful changes in the emotional or physical health of the client.
Also, ability to experience an altered state of physical arousal and subsequent mood by processing a progression of musical notes of varying tone, rhythm, and instrumentation for a pleasing effect. Music has always been used as a form of healing Indian drum circles to Medieval dance get-togethers The National Music Therapy Association was founded in 1950 (NMTA) Originally the Urban Federation of Music Therapists, 1971 marked the founding of American Association for Music Therapy (AAMT) Similar goals to the NMTA, just a different approach Theories of Music Therapy: Biochemical Theory Entrainment Theory Metaphysical Theory The Biochemical Theory states that music is a sensory stimulus that is processed through the sense of hearing. Sound vibrations are chemically changed into nervous impulses that activate either the sympathetic or parasympathetic nervous system. The Entrainment Theory, based on a law of physics, suggests that oscillations produced by music are received by the human energy field and the various physiological systems and organs entrain with or resonate with the given Hz (oscillation) of the music. The Metaphysical Theory suggests that music and song have a transcending quality that provides a direct communication with the divine. Music is divine in nature Many musicians say that when they compose, they are eavesdropping on the thoughts of God (e.g., Mozart, Beethoven, Paul McCartney). Studies show, when Music is most effective as a relaxation technique, the music has no lyrics and is purely instrumental. Type of music selected, listening environment, posture, and attitude also affect the quality of the relaxation response. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMmMNy TwePY This song is known as the most relaxing song of all time So much so that it is recommended that you dont listen to it in a car, because of these effects: Decreases resting heart rate Decreases resting blood pressure Decreases muscle tension Decreases other metabolic parameters associated with the stress response Music has a profound ability to effect ones mood whether its a lullaby or a rock concert Two Theories: 1. Music serves as a pleasant distraction from pain 2. Healing vibrations entrain a healing effect to reduce pain 7.8 Hz is thought to be the vibration of homeostasis Dolphins and whales sing at 7.8 Hz Make a good musical selection Create a good listening environment Create your own mix of relaxing songs Select songs without words/lyrics that could engage left brain to run amok with emotions. Listening to instrumental music can be a form of meditation It should be done without distractions (e.g., cell phones, TV, etc.) Playing an instrument also qualifies as music therapy Singing also qualifies as music therapy (so does whistling!)