Music Therapy

 

 

Music Therapy is the study and practice of how music affects people. Music therapists use music as their primary intervention when working with all individuals and groups. The music therapists will incorporate singing, vocalizing, instrument improvisation, exploration of unique sounds and other sensory experiences. Tempo, timbre, melody, harmony, pitch and genre of music are always considered – with the primary aim of supporting the needs of the clients by opening doors to communication, enticing participation and creating opportunity for inclusive social interactions.

 

 

Engaging in active music making interventions provides opportunity for children and youth to develop, explore, and share their identity. It also allows for meaningful participation and expression at a non-verbal level.

 

These music interventions are designed to create an environment of security and familiarity, encouraging the youth to attempt new tasks and to have successful experiences. There is always an emphasis on ability strengths which promotes a positive development of self that can then be shared.

Communication between the children and youth in the MusiKiva Canada Program can transcend through a variety of creative activities (interventions). Such interventions may include but are not limited to:

• Music Improvisation through singing and instrument playing
• Song Writing
• Music Listening: Music Inspired Art

To support the exchange aspect of the program some of the music created will be recorded in various media forms (ie. audio, video, lyric documentation) and shared between the children and youth in Calgary and those in Africa, via the music therapists.