The Healing Power of Music

In definition, music therapy is, “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals” (American Music Therapy). Music has been an element of the human psyche since early ancestors fell asleep to the rhythmic sounds of waves lapping against the shore and awoke to singing birds at daybreak. Theories on music therapy trace back to ancient Egypt where it was called the “physic of soul” in other words, a healing power (Podolsky). It gained resurgence during World Wars I and II, when volunteers played instruments and sang for wounded soldiers in hospitals. Music is integral to our culture and emotional health. Barbara Crowe, president of National Association for Music Therapy stated, "Music therapy can make the difference between withdrawal and awareness, between isolation and interaction, between chronic pain and comfort.” More research is clearly needed in how music effects those with disabilities and how best to deliver benefits to clients. Critics consider music therapy lacking in effectiveness or merit. Questioning if individuals truly benefit from therapy and argue whether insurance should rightfully pay for sessions. Music therapy is currently used to improve patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to retrain emotions, communication, and physical skills to recuperate their overall health.

The definition of a TBI is a “physical damage to living brain tissue caused by an external and mechanical force” (Baker, 2001). (explain) Scientists have proven that music stimulates most areas of the brain due to the advancements in brain imaging. In an eloquent quote from Kevin Shapiro, music is “woven integrally into the fabric of the nervous system.” The structure of music is actually a highly ...

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