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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155 results
The Effectiveness of Music as a Mnemonic Device on Recognition Memory for People with Multiple Sclerosis
2008
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Kimberly Sena Moore, David A. Peterson, Geoffrey O'Shea, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

This study examines how music can serve as a mnemonic to improve memory recognition in individuals with multiple sclerosis.

The effects of a Single Electronic Music Improvisation Session on the Pain of Adults with Sickle Cell Disease: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study
2018
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Samuel Rodgers-Melnick, Nadine Matthie, Coretta Jenerette, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

This study investigated feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a single-session electronic music improvisation with a music therapist to diminish pain intensity and improve pain relief and mood in adults with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Qualitatively, there were two prominent themes directly related to music: 1) music listening and music therapy offered many positive and few negative effects; and 2) music therapists provided comfort beyond the music. 

The effects of group music therapy on mood states and cohesiveness in adult oncology patients
2001
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Eric G. Waldon
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy 38 (Fall 2001) 212 – 238.
Country
United States (USA)

The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the efficacy of a music therapy protocol on mood states and levels of group cohesiveness in adult oncology patients. Participants took part in "music making" sessions (where the mechanism for change included the process of making music) and "music responding" sessions (where the mechanism included the process of responding to music). 

The effects of music therapy on engagement in family caregiver and care receiver couples with dementia
2002
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Alicia Ann Clair
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias
Country
United States (USA)

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of caregiver-implemented music applications on engagement with their care receivers. Music therapy applications are effective in increasing mutual engagement in couples with dementia, and caregivers can effectively facilitate the engagement using music. Furthermore, once the engagement is established, it carries over into visitation without music.

The impact of group music therapy for individuals with eating disorders
2021
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Priya Shah, Elizabeth Mitchell, Shannon Remers, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Approaches: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Canada

This study explored the efficacy of group music therapy sessions for teenagers and adults receiving in-patient eating disorder treatment. The results determined that music therapy was effective in reducing negative affect, improving emotional expression, supporting social connection, and helping patients on their recovery journey.

The multimodal vibroacoustic music therapy for functional neurological disorder: The MTFUND clinical protocol and initial impressions from multiple perspectives
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Mikaela Leandertz, Esa Ala-Ruona
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Approaches: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Finland

This study explored how vibroacoustic therapy and active music therapy can be integrated to help individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). It investigated participants’ experiences in treatment and enhancing manage symptoms.

The power of music as therapy in MS
2020
Type of reference
General information
Author
MBM productions
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Novartis
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapy enhances neuroplasticity among adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Watch interviews from medical professionals and a music therapist, testimonials from clients, and live music therapy experiences.

The role of music therapy in physical rehabilitation: a systematic literature review
2010
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Claire M. Weller, Felicity A. Baker
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nordic Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Australia

This research article investigates how music therapy can improve rehabilitation among individuals with physical impairments, neurological conditions, and developmental diagnoses. The study reviews existing literature and demonstrates that music therapy is effective in improving physiological, psychological, cognitive. and emotional functioning among patients.

The spiritual meaning of pre-loss music therapy to bereaved caregivers of advanced cancer patients
2009
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Lucanne Magill
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Palliative and Supportive Care
Country
United States (USA)

The aim of this study was to learn how music therapy sessions, held prior to the death of a loved one, impact spirituality in surviving caregivers of advanced cancer patients. Pre-loss music therapy can potentially assist caregivers during times of bereavement, as they retain memories of joy and empowerment, rather than memories of pain and distress, and find meaning through transcendence.

The use of music therapy to address psychosocial needs of informal Caregivers: An Integrative Review
2023
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Adrienne C. Steiner-Brett
Language
English
Source / Publisher
The Arts in Psychotherapy
Country
United States (USA)

The purpose of this investigation was to systematically review and analyze the existent music therapy literature addressing psychosocial needs of informal caregivers. Three categories were developed to sort and synthesize the literature including articles with interventions targeting joint informal caregiver (ICV) and care receiver (CR) participation, ICG specific participation, and CR specific participation. Most studies utilized an experimental design and incorporated a variety of active music therapy techniques in a group format or songwriting.

The Use of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation for Gait Disturbance in Patients with Neurologic Disorders
2013
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Kristin Lindaman, Mutsumi Abiru
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Music Therapy Perspectives
Country
United States (USA)
Japan

This study reviews research on rhythmic auditory stimulation, a neurologic music therapy technique that enhances gait in individuals recovering from stroke or living with Parkinson’s disease, or other neurological conditions.

Therapeutic Effect of Music Therapy on Patients with End-stage Cancer: A Retrospective Study
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jiali Dong , Yanhua Qu
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Noise & Health
Country
China

This research article studies the effects of music therapy for patients with a terminal illness who are receiving end-of-life care within a family context. It studies the impact that music therapy can have on patients' immune system, quality of life, quality of sleep, and anxiety and depression levels.