Resources & references

An online destination for discovery & deeper understanding.

Check back often as we add more resources.

The purpose of our resources database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele, and to help answer questions from a diversity of visitors seeking information about music therapy. 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.  

If you wish to contribute to our database, click on the button below. The proposed references are submitted to an analysis and a selection process by a team of music therapists from the Institute. Thank you in advance!

Propose new references

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

General search

Languages
Type of reference
Clients
Format
75 results Clear all
The Clinical Neuroscience of Music: Evidence Based Approaches and Neurologic Music Therapy - Editorial
2021
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Michael H. Thaut, Gerard Francisco, Volker Hoemberg
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Frontiers in Neuroscience
Country
Canada
United States (USA)
Germany

Read about the neuroscience supporting the use of music, and, more specifically, neurologic music therapy, to target non-musical tasks in neurorehabilitation and neurodevelopment.

The development and face validity of the music therapy sensory instrument for cognition, consciousness, and awareness (MuSICCA)
2025
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jonathan Pool, Wendy Magee, Richard Siegert, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Frontiers in Psychology
Country
United States (USA)
Ireland
New Zealand
Spain
United Kingdom (UK)

Read an article reporting on the first phase of the assessment of a new tool, the music therapy sensory instrument for cognition, consciousness, and awareness (MuSICCA), used for assessing awareness and consciousness in pediatric disorders of consciousness (DoC). Raters agreed that MuSICCA's appears to be effective in assessing consciousness and awareness, and is suitable for use with children and young people.

The Effect of Music Therapy on Mood States in Neurological Patients: A Pilot Study
2002
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Wendy L. Magee, Jane W. Davidson
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

This research article investigates how music therapy influences the mood levels of adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TB), and other types of brain injuries. The results demonstrated that participants had elevated mood levels after engaging in individual music therapy sessions.

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 impact of music therapy and music-based interventions on the psychiatric and psychological outcomes of traumatic brain injury: a systematic review
2026
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Maria Camilla P. Estelle, Allison N Marino, Rina Tabuchi, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

Read a systematic review exploring the effects of music-based interventions (MBIs), including music therapy, on psychological and psychatirc outcomes in adults patients with traumatic brain injuries. Results suggest that MBIs may have a positive effect on these symptoms in this population, however, future research is needed.

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 literature review examines the impact of music therapy in improving physiological, psychological, cognitive and emotional functioning among patients with physical, neurological, and developmental disabilities.

The Scientific Basis of Music Therapy
2020
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Berklee Online
Country
United States (USA)

In this video series, Berklee College of Music Faculty Dr. Suzanne B. Hanser, a board certified music therapist, and Annette Philip, founder and director of the renowned Berklee Indian Ensemble, share simple strategies from the Berklee Online course "Music Therapy Techniques for Wellness" to help you enrich your mind, body, and spirit through music.

The Transformative Thread of Music Therapy
2022
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Chiltern Music Therapy
Country
United Kingdom (UK)

This video features three people of various ages and needs, including a person living with Parkinson's disease, who have benefited from music therapy. It includes testimonials and shows music therapy experiences that addressed goals such as enhancing emotional expression, mood, movement, speech, cognitive functioning, and quality of life.

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 Uses of Music with Older Adults. Second Edition
2008
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Alicia Ann Clair, Jenny Memmott
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Music Therapy Association
Country
United States (USA)

Written by experienced American music therapists, this book explores how music therapy can enhance the quality of life for older adults, including those with physical impairments, Parkinson’s, stroke, or dementia. It also offers strategies for caregivers to use music in supporting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.