Every year on March 1st, World Music Therapy Day shines a light on music therapists worldwide. The day also showcases how music provides a way to make life better and more fulfilling.

Many people refer to music as a universal language. Music therapy is rooted in the healing effect it has on human beings. Music therapy has proven to be an effective way to address physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs of children, seniors, and people with disabilities. People with cerebral palsy, autism, learning disabilities, and many other types of disabilities see benefits of receiving music therapy.

Music therapy often includes singing, listening to music, creating music, moving to music, and using instruments.

Research proves that music therapy is effective for:

• Promoting movement
• Providing ways to communicate
• Providing ways to express feelings

Music therapists provide this type of therapy. Music therapists need a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from an accredited school in the United States. They must also have 1,200 hours of clinical training. According to the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), there are 8,000 music therapists in the United States. Other countries also have music therapy associations around the world, including Argentina, England, France, Austria, Canada, Switzerland, India, Japan, and Spain.

Since music is portable, music therapists provide their services in a variety of environments. They go to schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and even a client’s home. The success of music therapy allows some schools to implement music therapy in their special education programs. Music helps children in special education develop rhythm and motor skills as well as increase memorization skills. It also promotes children to behave appropriately and offers a distraction from discomfort and anxiety.

Scott Langholff is a professional musician with 40 years of teaching seniors to play and providing Musical entertainment to senior groups, dances and care facilities.  In the Pensacola, Florida area, the music is hand picked for the ages and crowds present.  It results in high engagement levels whether singing the lyrics, dancing or the smiles from the memories evoked, it’s a good time for all!

WORLD MUSIC THERAPY DAY HISTORY

The World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT) launched World Music Therapy Day in 2016. WFMT was founded in 1985 during the 5th World Congress of Music Therapy in Italy.

HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldMusicTherapyDay

Therapists, students, patients, and others are encouraged to share their love of music therapy with others.

There are also many ways for everyone to participate in World Music Therapy Day.

• If you know a music therapist, thank them for their essential work.
• If you or a family member has benefited from music therapy, share your story on social media.
• Write and record a song and post it online.
• Gather with a group and experience the joy of singing together.
• Learn more about music therapy and how it can benefit seniors or those with special needs.

Spread awareness for this day on social media with #WorldMusicTherapyDay or #WMTD.