According to Greek mythology,
Orpheus used the power of music
to save his lost love from
the darkness of the underworld.
Today’s music therapists use
music’s healing power to reach patients
who need specialized care.
Music therapists develop music-based
treatment programs for people with disabilities,
injuries, or illnesses.
They teach clients how to use music to
improve their well-being;
it can help people adjust to life changes,
feel less anxious or depressed,
and generally experience clearer thinking
and more positive emotions.
Experienced musicians enter this field with
the ability to sing and play instruments
such as keyboard, guitar, or percussion.
They assess clients’ needs…
and their interest in different aspects of music…
to design a specific musical experience—
that might include playing instruments,
singing, and moving
or dancing to music…
or a therapist might play music to patients
and invite them to draw, meditate,
or just listen.
Typical employers of music therapists include
general hospitals, psychiatric hospitals,
rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes,
and schools.
Some music therapists work in
their own private practice.
Most music therapists have
a bachelor’s degree in their field.
Many employers prefer national certification.
These professionals combine the
knowledge of a therapist with
strong music skills to elicit
a level of healing that
—for some patients—
words alone could never reach.