What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a discipline in which Music Therapists use music purposefully within therapeutic relationships to support development, health and well-being. 

• Playing instruments can improve gross and fine motor coordinations. Playing instruments with others can increase joint attention, turn-taking and cooperation. Learning an instrument can increase self-esteem.
• Rhythm activities can improve mobility, range of motion, coordination and can promote relaxation.
• Singing songs can help develop articulation, breath control and increase language. Singing in a group can improve social skills and increase awareness of others. 
• Improvising is a creative and non-verbal means of expressing thoughts and feelings. Improvisation is non-judgmental and requires no previous musical training. Where words fail or emotions are too hard to express, music can fill the void.
• Songwriting can facilitate the sharing of feelings, ideas and experiences. Lyric discussion and songwriting can help an individual express feelings and thoughts that may not be easy to share otherwise.

                                                                          (Canadian Association of Music Therapists)