Through the ages parents have used music to sing their children to sleep and to ease pain and distress. It soothes, it comforts, it motivates, it inspires, and it connects us. Music has been used to bring communities together, to celebrate, to mourn, to share, and to learn.
Music has changed from what it once was. Thanks to modern technology, music is everywhere. It is used to create moods in the movies we watch, influence our buying habits while shopping, and we now have music on our phones, in our car, and through our iPods.
But when was the last time you gathered around a piano to sing together with friends or family? The true benefits of music lie in its creation. The making of music together is where we see the greatest benefit. For many of us, these are memories from years ago. Making music together was once a form of family entertainment. It was used to unify and motivate soldiers in battle. It was the central focus and reason for social gatherings and outings. Now it simply seems to be one more thing on our children’s activity schedule, or just something we listen to.
As a Music Therapist I encourage children and adults alike to tap into their creativity and imagination. Music has a richness that is accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. It gives us a safe and positive way to express ourselves, build confidence, and explore feelings and emotions. It allows us to connect and communicate with one another free from the confines of words and dialogue. The effects of music on brain development and learning have been well researched and documented. It’s the reason we at Expressions Music Therapy Services believe in programs such as Kindermusik and Adventures in Music, a fun and stimulating program designed to give your child the opportunity to enhance their creativity, increase their attention span, develop confidence, and so much more.
Expressions Music Therapy Services provides music therapy in many group homes, long term care homes, and private sessions throughout the region. They use our services because we provide individualized programs to enhance well being, and encourage participation, interaction, and self-expression.
We need to come together as families and as communities to reconnect with ourselves and with each other. For more information about Music Therapy or making music together, please contact us. Tap into your inner musical child and have fun!
(Article printed in the Kitchener Citizen (East Edition) February 17, 2010)
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