Music As A Therapeutic Use Of Music Therapy

Merriam Webster defines music as sounds that are sung by voices or played on musical instruments, written or printed symbols showing how music should be played or sung, and the art or skill of creating or performing music. Merriam Webster also defines Therapy as the treatment of physical or mental illnesses. When these two activities are brought together we create music therapy. This is defined as therapy based on engagement in musical activities: the therapeutic use of music (as to reduce anxiety, improve cognitive functioning, promote physical rehabilitation, or enhance interpersonal communication) that typically involves listening to music, singing, playing musical instruments, or composing music. The American Music Therapy Association is a group made up of music therapist from around the world. “The American Music Therapy Association is the largest professional association which represents over 5,000 music therapist corporate members and related association worldwide” (American Music Therapy Association). According to them “Music Therapy is a clinical and interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program” (American Music Therapy Association). Music Therapy can be described in many different ways. In a study by Tracey McConnell, David Scott and Sam Porter they describe music therapy as “the use of music and sounds to facilitate the development of a relationship between patient and professionally trained therapist with the aim of supporting relaxation and
“The earliest known reference to music therapy appeared in 1789 in an unsigned article in Columbian Magazine titled Music Physically considered” (American Music Therapy Association). Even though 1789 was the first time music therapy was documented it was not the first time it was ever