Therapeutic Instrument Play

Instruments play (pun intended) a dynamic role in a music therapy session. People of all ages and abilities can benefit from live instrumental experiences. This can look different across sessions, depending on the needs of the client. For example, it could be in the form of a drum circle where a group is interacting non-verbally through improvisation, or in an individual session with set chords, notes, and rhythms. The list of instruments used goes way beyond guitar and piano!

Here are a few that I have used:

Cabasa                Claves

Tambourine        Bells

Egg Shakers       Tone Chimes

Recorders           Boomwhackers

Djembe               Floor Drums

Paddle Drums    Ocean Drums

Q-Chord             Xylophones

The list of functional goals that can be reached using musical instruments is also extensive.

Here are a few examples of the behaviors that can be improved/increased:

Positive coping skills

Emotional expression

Self-regulation

Range of motion

Fine/gross motor skills

Self-esteem

Attention span

Social interaction

Pain management

Audio/visual perception

The fantastic thing about instruments is that they are intrinsically motivating while providing multiple opportunities for choice and autonomy. This means that the client may feel a sense of control when choosing an instrument, and (because it is preferred) is even more likely to actively participate in the session. Another great thing is that instruments are versatile. Adaptive handles and other equipment may be used to allow people with limited motor functioning to be successful.

To see additional goals that can be served in music therapy:

http://www.inmusictherapy.com/vlt12768.htm

For more information on specific populations:

http://www.musictherapy.org/research/factsheets/

Research specific to instrumental play (There is way more out there!):

Best, H. (2014). Group music therapy utilising marimba playing for children with low self-esteem (Order No. 1600914).                   Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (1712633662). Retrieved from                                                             http://search.proquest.com.www2.lib.ku.edu/docview/1712633662?accountid=14556

Case Examples of Improvisational Music Therapy. (2012). Gilsum, NH, USA: Barcelona Publishers. Retrieved from                        http://www.ebrary.com.www2.lib.ku.edu

Lim, H. A., Miller, K., & Fabian, C. (2011). The effects of therapeutic instrumental music performance on endurance                      level, self-perceived fatigue level, and self-perceived exertion of inpatients in physical                                                              rehabilitation. Journal of Music Therapy, 48(2), 124-148. Retrieved from                                                                                   http://search.proquest.com.www2.lib.ku.edu/docview/881979785?accountid=14556