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
Format

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88 results
To the beat of music therapy at the MGH
2019
Type of reference
General information
Language
French
Source / Publisher
McGill University Health Centre
Country
Canada
Keywords
General article
Hospital
Psychiatric conditions
Choir
Custom Audio Editing
Active music therapy
Receptive music therapy
Mental health
Adults

This article describes music therapy services offered at the adult psychiatry department of the Montreal General Hospital.

Read the article
University Hospitals Connors Whole Health study finds certain music therapy interventions may be more beneficial for pain
2025
Type of reference
General information
Author
Carly Belsterling
Language
English
Source / Publisher
University Hospitals
Country
United States (USA)
Keywords
News story
Hospital
Pain management
Medical care
Adults

This article presents a study exploring the use of music therapy interventions for pain management in adults. Findings show that recreative and music-assisted relaxation and imagery interventions were significantly more likely to reduce pain intensity than receptive only interventions and also suggest that male patients, medicaid beneficiaries, and patients with sickle cell disease were less likely to report pain reduction.

Click here to read the referenced study.

Read the article
We'll Hug Again: Sung by veterans and a music therapist
2020
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Sunnybrook Hospital
Country
Canada
Keywords
Music therapy session
Hospital
Veterans
Combatting isolation
Singing
Group music therapy
Mental health
Adults

Watch Trish MacAulay, a certified music therapist, lead a group music therapy session for veterans. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the group aimed to enhance social interaction and improve wellbeing.

Click here to learn more about how music therapy can improve veterans's quality of life.

Watch the video (1:50)
When music is medicine for kids coping with cancer
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
PBS News Hour
Country
United States (USA)
Keywords
Interview with a music therapist
Music therapy session
Hospital
Cancer
Singing
Songwriting
Symptom management
Improvisation
Instrumental playing
Pain management
Emotional support
Medical care
Children
Teenagers

Watch how music therapist Betsy Hartman supports children with cancer in a pediatric hospital setting.

Watch the video (4:06)