Music therapy is prevalent in Greek mythology, philosophy and Native American culture. In our recent history, music therapy was a prominent resource during World War I and World War II. During these two historic wars, community musicians volunteered their time and played for veterans and the wounded in hospitals. Both patients and nurses noticed a difference in mood and experienced a positive emotional response to the music. They noted feeling an improvement in their outlook and felt less pain. The music was so well received that doctors began hiring musicians to play for soldiers.
Currently music therapy is enjoyed by children, teens and adults facing great feats in hospitals. One of the great aspects of music therapy is that it is individualized from patient to patient. This means that one child may find success learning a new instrument, while others may enjoy writing songs, singing or simply listening to music. Children especially have a strong interest in music therapy because it is not only fun for them, but it also provides mental and physical relief.
Benefits of Music Therapy 