Therapeutic Teaching Through Music

Ma. Roda Tejuco

Music is heard all around the world and it can be said that its influence is
unquestionable. All human beings can relate to music. It can make us laugh or
cry, it can make us sing or dance, and it can make us feel excited or relaxed. It
affects andhelps individuals in a variety of ways. According to research, as a
person listens to music, more alpha rhythms associated with relazation, as well
as endorphins which are the body’s natural defenses are produced. Music brings
about such a ―feel good‖ effect on individuals. Thus, it is not surprising that
music therapy has come about.

The National Association for Music Therapy (NAMT) defined music therapy
as the systematic application of music as directed by the music therapist in the
therapeutic environment to bring about desirable changes in behavior. It aims
the restoration, maintenance and improvement of mental and physical health.
Moreover, music therapy is a behavioral science. Music, being the main
therapeutic ingredient is used to establish trust. By means of carefully structured
activities such as listening, signing, playing instruments and composing, music
therapy is concerned with changing unwanted, uncomfortable and unhealthy
conditions to more adaptive and appropriate ones. Music is instrumental in the
development in different areas such as communication skills, gross and fine
motor skills, social skills, academic performance as well as emotional functioning
of individuals.

In music therapy, each individual is provided with support and

encouragement in his acquisition of new skills and abilities. Because music is a
powerful and non-threatening medium, unique outcomes are possible. And
because music touches each person in so many ways, participation in music
therapy offers opportunities for learning, creativity and expression that may be
significantly different from other more traditional therapeutic or educational
approaches.

Music therapy may include the use of behavioral, biomedical,

developmental, educational, humanistic, adaptive music instruction and other
models. Music therapy enhances one’s quality of life, involving relationships
between a qualified music therapist and the individual; between one individual
and another; between the individual and his family; and between music and the
participants. These relationships are structured and adapted through the element
of music to create a positive environment and paves the way for successful
growth.
Goals and Objectives of Music Therapy
Music Therapy has different goals for the different populations it caters to,
each group having its own needs and problems that should be addressed. But
what does music therapy generally do?
 Music therapy facilitates creative expression in the people who either are
nonverbal or have deficits in communication skills.
 Music therapy provides opportunities for experiences that open the way
for and motivate learning in all domains of functioning
 Music therapy creates the opportunity for positive successful and
pleasurable social experiences not otherwise available to them
 Music therapy develops self-awareness, awareness of others and the
environment that improves functioning on all levels It also enhances well-
being and fosters independent living.

Aim of Music Therapy

 The overall aim of music therapy is to actively engage individuals in their
own growth, development and behavior change. It aims to bring musical
skills into the other aspects of life, bringing individuals from isolation into
active participation in the world. While participants may develop their
musical skills, the main concern in using the effect it can have on the
individual’s physical, psychological and socio-economic functioning.

Long-Term Goals
Among the long term goals of music therapy are (Boxil, 1985)
 To improve self-image and body awareness
 To increase communication skills
 To increase the ability to use energy purposively
 To reduce maladaptive behaviors, stereotypic, compulsive, self-abusive,
assaultive, disruptive, impulsive, preservative)
 To increase interaction with peers and others
 To increase independence and self-direction
 To stimulate creativity and imagination
 To enhance emotional expression and adjustment
 To increase attending behavior
 To improve fine and gross motor skills
 To improve auditory perception

Given the list, music therapy has a lot of goals. However, it does not mean that
all these are addressed at one time. Specific goals are prescribed depending on
the needs of the individuals at a certain point. These mainly serve as guidelines
on the direction the therapist-teacher takes.
Programs and Techniques
One of the strengths of music as a tool in therapy is its flexibility it comes
in different forms and styles, which can be enjoyed passively by listening through
direct involvement in music-making. Moreover, one does not have to be formally
trained to take pleasure in it. Music can stand alone, yet it can be enjoyed
together with other stimuli like dance and visuals. It can be a solitary activity for
a person, yet it can be shared with other people,. Having all these qualities,
make music a flexible therapeutic tool through which personal growth and
behavior change can occur. Likewise, due to its flexibility, several techniques can
be utilized in music therapy.

Some examples are:

Music and Performing
This consists of activities during which clients sing, play instruments or
compose music. The act of performing music can include improvisation where
members of the group make up music and interact with one another. Music
performing nay consist of playing pre-composed work and may focus around the
creation of new composition. Whatever the format, music performance need not
be limited to trained musicians. Music therapists are and specially arranged
musical compositions can facilitate participation by people with a wide range of
skills and functional levels.

Improvisational Music Therapy

The basic philosophy of the improvisational music therapy is that these
techniques elicit client’s responses from every level It develops contact with the
client within the context of the musical experience. The role of the music
therapist in this model often works supportively, creating an emotional
environment and accepts and enhances the client’s responses. This method
provides for socialization, communication and expression of feelings and
emotions among group participants. The music therapist can also integrate
movement, speech and drama in this model.

Singing and Discussion

Singing and discussion is a method commonly used for psychiatric,
adolescent populations as well as the elderly. The music stimulates the client’s
responses and reactions to the lyrics of a song. Sometimes, the music itself
encourages the expression of thoughts and feelings associated with the song.

Guided Imagery and Music (GIM)

GIM is a technique in which the act of listening to classical music is
combined with a relaxed state of mind and body in order to evoke imagery for
the purpose of self-actualization. The imagery evoked reflects aspects of the self
and is used by the client, with the guidance of the music therapist. GIM does not
intent to cure or treat symptom; rather it is in search of the client’s inner
awareness. It is rooted in the belief that everyone can understand his/her
problems and ha the ability to overcome the problem within the self. GIM is
based on humanistic therapy and is influenced by the theories of Abraham
Maslow and Carl Jung.

Clinical Orff Schulwerk (COS)

This approach, utilizing the method of music education developed by Carl
Orff for German School children has been specially adapted for children with
mental retardation and because of their predisposition toward rhythm, order and
repetition. The overall process involves the use of movement, rhythm sounds,
language and musical expression in a group experience. Structure is provided by
the simple chants, poems and nonsense words all sung with pentatonic scale.

Strategies and Techniques for Children with Special Needs

General suggestions for special children in music therapy:
Sing songs of identification: names, families, pets
Sing favorite songs: Happy Birthday, Good morning, rhymes, television
jingles
Sing and do action songs involving specific body parts and actions like
clapping, hopping and nodding
Do circle games with songs
Sing humorous songs or those with surprises
Sing day songs on holidays
Incorporate the use of rhythm instruments such as drums and bells in
song
Sing songs that require the following of directions
Use props like ball, puppet and scarves in songs
Sing songs with a definite rhythm
Name exercise in songs

Music Therapy for Individuals with Mental Retardation

Goals
A strategy, for improvising social and emotional behavior – Musical
activities can be structured to promote appropriate and/or minimize
inappropriate behaviors
A means for improving motor skills- Music and movement activities can
help develop motor skills and enhance the ability to learn.
A tool for improving communication-Music therapy experiences can
promote language development and improve vocal production
An aid in teaching pre-academic and academic skills-Well planned music
activities can help teach basic skills like following directions and
maintaining eye contact. It can also be used in teaching more difficult
concepts.
 A leisurely activity- music therapists can help individuals with mental
retardation incorporate meaningful musical activities into their leisure time
by listening and/or performing

Even though most music therapy sessions are done in groups, treatment
strategies must be individualized since the needs of those with mental
retardation vary.

Music Therapy for Individuals with Autism

Music therapy is value able in dealing with individuals with autism. It is an
engaging stimulus for them since they can participate successfully in music
activities. A number of studies have shown that improved social behavior and
interpersonal relationships are the results of music therapy. Moreover, enhanced
motor coordination or body image, improved language skills have been reported
as results of music therapy for those with autism.

Goals
Improve fine and gross motor coordination
Increase attention span
Develop body awareness
Develop concept of self
Develop social skills
Develop verbal and nonverbal communication
Facilitate learning of basic academic and pre-academic concepts
Interrupt and alter ritualistic, repetitive behavior patterns
Reduce anxiety, temper tantrums and hyperactivity
Train sensory perception and sensorimotor integration (auditory,
visual, tactile, kinesthetic)
Techniques for Accomplishing Goals
1. Vocalization exercises- singing single or combination of vowels,
consonants with proper inflection and breath support.
2. Singing and chanting, often accompanied by body persuasion
3. movement-including dance creative movement, rhythmic exercises and
imitation techniques
4. musical games
5. instrument performance, using imitation or improvisation techniques in
both group and one-to-one settings
6. music listening

Music Therapy for Individuals with Visual Impairments

Individuals with visual impairment may venture into new activities and
explore a larger world through music. Music therapy aims to reduce the
impact of visual impairment on social, emotional and motor functioning.
 Goals
Development of orientation and mobility
Promotion of social skills
Appropriate of emotional expressions
Reduction of mannerisms by using music as a form of sensory
stimulation

Young children with visual impairment require a little in a way of special

adaptation to music activities; auditory and primary learning styles can be
employed. Auditory memory can be enhanced through music. Concrete
experiences and tactile aids should be provided, especially exploration of the
rhythm instrument and opportunities to play and touch other instruments.

Music Therapy for Individuals with Hearing Impairments

Individuals with hearing impairments need exposure to activities that help
promote flexibility, relaxation and hearing activity. Music and the social nature of
its activities can help reduce the impact of these problems.

Techniques of Music Therapy for Individuals with Hearing Impairments

1. Music sounds to encompass a wide range of frequencies that can be
played at high intensity levels, and produce tactile as well as auditory
stimulation. These are useful in auditory training tasks such as awareness
and discrimination.
2. Musical patterns can be used to demonstrate and reinforce similar
characteristics of speech production.
3. New vocabulary and correct language use can be reinforced through
activities such as songwriting and singing
4. Following instructions, taking turn, cooperating with others and sharing
ideas are part of musical ensembles social skills. These activities provide a
motivating and structured environment for learning and reinforcing
appropriate social behaviors.

Music Therapy for Individuals with Physical Impairment

Goals
To improve motor skills – music is used to guide and structure motor
activities
To improve communication skills-singing chanting the combination of
music and plays or just being involved in a rewarding musical activity
with others can encourage or motivate the child to engage in
communication.
To improve social skills- group singing or instrumental ensembles can be
arranged to bring together ambulatory and wheelchair bound children,
children with skilled or impaired usage of hands and fingers and with or
 without sensory impairments and engage them in social interaction
through music
To improve emotional skills – music therapy can play an eminent role in
satisfying emotional needs because it is a strong and rewarding effective
medium
To improve musical skills-By using proper resources for the selection of
instruments and adaptive devices, children can achieve musically. Musical
development will ―normalize‖ the child’s life by providing performance-
oriented success, experiences and the rewards of aesthetic training and
integrating both with the social, emotional and motor-skill benefits of
musical training
To improve emotional skills- Music therapy can play an eminent role in
satisfying emotional needs because it is a strong and rewarding effective
medium.
Music Therapy for the Gifted
Gifted children want to extend music activities, to experiment with a
variety of instruments, to develop, record and tape collections, to enjoy hearing
musicians, to learn about the lives of performers and to emulate the stars of
today, They are often precocious with melody and composing. However, it is
important that the gifted child enjoy the normal activities suited for his age.

There are no special procedures for the gifted children in music—all

approaches must be considered. Enrichment activities should be appropriately
comples to challenge and stimulate. Quality and individual initiative should be
stressed. But in the end, it is still the child first, the talent, second.

Music Therapy for Individuals with Behavior Problems

Usually, behavior disorders and severely emotionally disturbed children
are placed in special group situations. Here, individual study and observation of
particular children are encouraged. After this, it is up to the teacher to specialize
in going back to the general guidelines. Most authorities agree that music has
therapeutic qualities and can be valuable in the routine of children with behavior
problems. Special considerations include early prevention with a strategy similar
to other children. From the teacher, experimentation with different types of
musical activities, with songs as well as simple instruments may encourage this
group of children to participate more fully and develop moderated behavior.