Resources & references

Read a review exploring the existing evidence on the potential applications of music therapy in health care. Current evidence is highlighted, as well as existing limitations, both in research and practice. Guidelines for the development of policies supporting the integration of music therapy in health care are also discussed. 

Music therapist and researcher Mark Ettenberger explains what music therapy is, who it can benefit, how it can be applied, and what are its therapeutic benefits.

Music therapist Tatia Zarate describes in Spanish how music therapy supports child development and families. Segments of music therapy sessions are featured.

Valérie Saulnier, a professional singer and music therapist presents the benefits and applications of music therapy for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Music can help them regain fluid motion, improve cognitive abilities, enhance coordination, facilitate rhythmic movement, and support social and emotional functioning. 

Learn about the National Music Therapy Institute, founded by music therapist Suzanne Caron—its mission, vision, and history, along with key projects developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including online music therapy for family caregivers, autistic individuals, as well as training initiatives for music therapists.

A survey by the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) across the UK to explore public attitudes toward music therapy, reveals largely positive perceptions, but also highlights a persistent lack of understanding about what music therapy entails and how to access it.

In this news report, giants in their fields of music and science, soprano Renee Fleming and phyician and geneticist Francis Collins, are merging their knowledge to propel advancements in body and mind. Recent discoveries are shared. A recent international gathering of researchers, therapists and artists took stock of what is known and what is yet to be discovered. 

Read an interview with an Australian music therapist, reflecting on the development of the music therapy profession over her years as a registered music therapist.

This article features explorations of themes and ideas that emerged from a close examination of podcast transcripts from the first 40 interview-based episodes of the Canadian Music Therapy podcast, featuring reflections from hosts, Adrienne Pringle and Cathy Thompson.

This article summarizes findings from a research article that explores the musical skills required to be a music therapist. Findings were gathered based on the opinions of a dozen music therapists in the United States and have implications for the education and  training of future music therapists.

Click here to read the research study referenced in this article.

Read an article about the potential harms of music, especially in the context of vulnerable people. Highlights include the importance of following the professional advice of music therapists to navigate and mediate these potential harms, as well as the importance of ensuring consent and/or control for individuals experiencing music in their environments.

Watch how Nordoff Robbins provides music therapy to individuals with various needs and of various ages. Specific examples are provided, with Amy, an autistic individual, and Declan, a young boy in a hospital setting.