Research Topic

Music is an art of sound, consisting of rhythm, harmonies, melodies, dynamics, and the qualities of timbre. It is a form of expression used to convey a variety of emotions, from happiness, to melancholy, to anger, to mystery, to relief, and so on. Therefore, it is one of the greatest natural healing tools know to man. Music Therapy is the use of music and /or musical elements by a qualified music therapist with a client or group, in progress designed to facilitate and promote communication, relationships, learning, mobilization, expression, organization and other relevant therapeutic objectives, in order to meet physical, emotional, mental, social and cognitive needs. Music therapy aims to develop potentials and/or restore functions of the individual so that he or she can achieve better intra- and inter- personal integration and, consequently, a better quality life through prevention, rehabilitation or treatment. (World Federation of Music Therapy 1996)   My topic, will be dealing with the area of Music Therapy and its effectiveness. A few examples of approaches include: Behavioral music therapy; using music to modify appropriate behavior and to reduce or eliminate bad or inappropriate behaviors, Psychotherapeutic music therapy; where music is used to help the client gain insight into their world, and Educational music therapy; where music therapists relate to learning processes, development, realizing potential and meeting the needs of children in connection with their educational program.