Music plays a fundamental role in our identity, culture, heritage and spiritual beliefs. It can be life changing for many people. 

Playing a musical instrument, being part of a choir or in a band, listening to music – these are all ways in which we can engage in music. Everyone has the ability to respond to music, so when exploring music therapy, music therapists will use music to support people of all ages and abilities and at all stages of life.

“Where words fail or emotions are too hard to express, music can fill the void.” Canadian Association of Music Therapists

Who can benefit?

Because musical participation and response does not depend on the ability to speak, music therapy is a particularly effective tool for people who have difficulty communicating verbally.

For people affected by disability, illness or injury, working with music therapists can be life-changing.

Children with autism can develop emotional, social and communication skills. An adult who has dementia can, through the powerfully evocative nature of music, connect with these memories again and share these with others. 

Today is World Music Therapy Day, designed to shine a light on music therapists and the ability of music to make life better and more fulfilling.

Using Skoog in Music Therapy

Skoog is a great tool for use in music therapy as it is a truly inclusive instrument. For many people with disabilities one of the greatest barriers to making music is the dexterity required to play a more traditional musical instrument. Skoog removes that barrier.

It’s the Music Therapist’s equivalent of a swiss-army knife and can help address the developmental needs of children and adults with a wide range of impairments and/or complex needs.

There are many ways that you can engage children in music therapy? Click here to download the Top 10 Tunes for Engaging Children in Music Therapy.