Music is a universal phenomenon that permeates our everyday lives. Most often people recognize the innate nature of music and its role in our lives, but the concept of integrating music experiences with therapy can be elusive. As a music therapist, Dr Shubham Kulkarni( MD- Ayurveda & Sangeet Visharad) constantly evaluates the mechanisms by which music steers therapeutic change. Fortunately, music therapy is a research-based field with several books, peer-reviewed journals and articles, and a large cohort of scientists dedicated to studying and teaching its practice. Dr Shubham currently conducts music therapy at PallEx Hospital, Shivajinagar. Music therapy is not just about playing music for patients - there is a large scientific base for the methods and techniques music therapists use.
One of the most difficult things to understand for somebody who does not understand music therapy is that, just because you may find certain music activities therapeutic, the experience itself may not fit the definition of “therapy.”. A music therapist must have a sound understanding of how to perform and manipulate music for therapeutic benefit, but simultaneously he mustbe a competent therapist. Music therapists are skilled in the art of therapeutic conversation. This doesn’t mean other health professionals can’t or shouldn’t use music in their practice. However, there are distinct music therapy interventions, like techniques which are unique to physical therapy and psychotherapy.
How does music work during therapy?
People constantly use music to alter their state of mind, reflect on their mood, motivate a workout, socialize with others, or just pass the time. Music is immensely powerful to influence how we feel and behave. It is a music therapist’s job to contain that power and inculcate elements of music to bring aboutholistic change. One way we can conceptualize how this works, isto understand using music as therapy or music in therapy. Although its subtle, there is an important difference.
A few examples to help you understand the difference:
Definition of Music as a Therapy : A music therapist incorporates live music with ragas while guiding the patient.Singing different ragas, playing sitar or violin are used during a music therapy session. It can be for a single patient or a group of patients. The tempo of the raga or violin is entrained to the tempo of the patient’s breathing and gradually slowed to induce relaxation and help manage pain, stress or whatever the music session is for.
Definition of Music used in therapy : Themusic therapist determines the preferred music of a patient. This music is facilitated live with singing and instruments. Here the patient is tasked with actively listening and identifying different ragas which are meaningful to him. Here the Music Therapist engages the patient in supportive conversation, thereby helping the patient to gain insight into his thoughts and develop positive cognitive coping skills.
There are many ways in which music can be used to promote health.This is supported with an evidence-based approach. Music therapists aid social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skillsthrough structured music experiences. They may be provided in groups duringwhich patients learn social interactions through instrument play like drumming, singing etc.
Also, music therapy has different approach based on the setting. Many music therapists work in special needs schools, geriatric centers, rehabilitation, private practice and mental health.
Although entertainment is one function of music, it can be used for much greater and broader benefits. Like the other therapists in the hospital, music therapists provide a clinical service, to use their expertise in a specific field to promote health. Music is a powerful stimulus. Understanding how to use music for therapeutic purpose is the mainstay of music therapy.