Resources & references

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The purpose of our database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele.  We therefore propose a selection of pertinent* references, however not exhaustive, given that each week more research and other information are published around the world. 

Note (*) : the Institute does not endorse any promotional content, publicity or donation requests that might be included in any of the references.

Language
Type of reference
Clients
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25 results
A Community-Based Music Therapy Support Group for People With Alzheimer's Disease and Their Caregivers: A Sustainable Partnership Model
2018
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Robin Rio
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Frontiers in Medicine
Country
United States (USA)

This article explains how a music therapy support group was created to relieve some of the strain on caregivers by allowing for greater emotional support through relationships with peers and professionals, and through the increase of meaningful interactions with their loved ones with dementia. The community-based MT support group has been replicated twice within the region, and is a promising model for other communities. 

A great moment . . . because of the music: An exploratory study on music therapy and early interaction with children with visual impairment and their sighted caregivers
2015
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Maren Metell
Language
English
Source / Publisher
British Journal of Visual Impairment
Country
Norway

This article describes how musical interaction can contribute to bonding and early interaction for children with visual impairments (aged 1–4 years) and their caregivers, who participated in music therapy sessions over 10 weeks. This article discusses the findings in the broader perspective of disability studies and community music therapy, and argues that music therapy promotes positive interactions and empowerment of children with visual impairment and their caregivers.

A Music Therapy Respite Program for Caregivers of Individuals With Memory Loss
2020
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Becky Wellman
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Music Therapy Perspectives
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapy has been a known positive and impactful intervention for adults with memory loss, but previous research and program reports have focused mainly on residents in long-term care facilities. In this study, a caregiver survey was utilized to learn how Music Therapy Respite, a community-based drop-in program, benefited caregivers and their care partner and if this changed based on attendance in a professionally led support group.

Blind spots in music therapy. Toward a critical notion of participation in context of children with visual impairment
2016
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Brynjulf Stige, Maren Metell
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nordic Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Norway

The purpose of this theoretical paper is to explore and develop a critical notion of participation within the context of music therapy and children with visual impairment, and to examine theoretical ideas that are relevant for practice, research, and further theoretical discussion. The frameworks of community music therapy and disability studies are used. 

Celebrating Pride with Inclusive Music Therapy
2020
Type of reference
General information
Author
Music Heals
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Music Heals
Country
Canada

This article describes how music therapy can be an anti-oppressive and affirmative service for LGBTQ+ individuals. It describes the benefits of music therapy in both group and individual settings, and describes an example of how one client benefited from a music therapy program.

C'est la journée internationale de la musique! - Musicothérapie au Centre de Pédiatrie Sociale de Laval
2021
Type of reference
General information
Author
Centre de Pédiatrie Sociale Laval
Language
French
Source / Publisher
Centre de Pédiatrie Sociale Laval
Country
Canada

Video interview with Méliane Laurier-Cromp, music therapist at the Centre de Pédiatrie Sociale de Laval. Reflexions on the role of the music therapist inside the social pediatrics team and on the added value of music therapy at the CPSL.

Children's Right to Music
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
French
Subtitle
French/English - in language other than audio
Source / Publisher
Concordia University, Department of Creative Arts Therapies
Country
Canada

Concordia University produced the "Children's Right to Music" documentary. The videos included in this documentary introduce music therapists interacting and using music with groups of children that are autistic or with some disabilities, in schools or community settings adapted to support their development and meet their needs.

Community Music Therapy for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities
2004
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Sandra L. Curtis , Chesley Sigmon Mercado
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy, 4(3)
Country
Canada

This paper describes a Performing Arts Program, representative of Community Music Therapy. Adults with developmental disabilities participated in community-based performing ensembles — instrumental/vocal groups and American Sign Language (ASL) music interpretation groups. The Performing Arts Program was successful in fostering community engagement, social networking, and friendship building. Implications for the changing trends in music therapy are discussed.

Concepts de pédiatrie sociale en communauté et musicothérapie : Une perspective herméneutique
2015
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Sandrine Zuyderhoff
Language
French
Source / Publisher
Université Concordia
Country
Canada

Masters thesis that analyzes concepts of social paediatrics applied to music therapy. Results describe the application of these concepts by music therapists working within this approach. 

Conférence CREGÉS: Fostering Inclusion & Empowerment of Aging Adults with IDD in an Art Hive Context
2024
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
CREGÉS - CAU en gérontologie sociale
Country
Canada

This study explored perspectives and social needs of aging adults with IDD as expressed by them through actions, words, music, and art that they shared in a university community Art Hive. Using collaborative and participatory methods, this research contextualizes the Art Hive as a place of social, creative, and relational engagement and inclusion.

Co-production of the Organisation: Developing Democratic Management Practice in a Music Therapy Project for and by Trans and Nonbinary Communities
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Francis Myerscough and Tory Williams
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Australian Journal of Music Therapy
Country
England
United Kingdom (UK)

This article explores a music therapy project for and by trans and nonbinary people called Phoenix Song Project. It explains what coproduction practices in music therapy are, summarizes the project's journey so far, and provides the authors' reflections.

It Is Not Just Music and Rhythm . . . Evaluation of a Drumming-Based Intervention to Improve the Social Wellbeing of Alienated Youth
2012
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Simon Faulkner, Lisa Wood, Penny Ivery, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Children Australia
Country
Australia

The Discovering Relationship Using Music, Beliefs, Emotions, Attitudes & Thoughts (DRUMBEAT) program used drumming as a way of engaging at risk youth in a form of musical expression, while simultaneously incorporating themes and discussions relating to healthy relationships with others. The results support the underlying program theory, that combining the therapeutic potential of musical expression with basic cognitive–behavioural therapy can be used successfully to deliver a range of social learning outcomes, including emotional control, improved relationships and increased self-esteem.