Introduction to Approaches in Music Therapy: A Guide for Practicing Music Therapists by Alice Ann Darrow
Alice Ann DARROW, professor at Florida State University and Irvin Cooper Professor of Music Therapy and Music Education, has extensive expertise in teaching music to special populations. Her research and clinical work focus on deaf culture, nonverbal communication, and classroom techniques for those with hearing loss. Her publications include eighteen books, journal articles, and book chapters.
This text serves as an introduction for entering undergraduate and graduate music therapy students, outlining the major approaches currently used. It covers their history, philosophy of practice, clinical applications, as well as related research and professional issues.
The chapters are organized into three sections: Approaches Adapted from Music Education, Psychotherapeutic Approaches to Music Therapy, and Medical Approaches to Music Therapy. Each chapter provides a brief overview of the approach along with its philosophical foundation, clinical applications and related research findings, as well as recommendations for further reading.
Darrow’s approach to music therapy is a holistic one that emphasizes the significance of all aspects of learning. She also pays special attention to the unique learning differences present in students with hearing loss, suggesting that music teachers should not be intimidated by including these students into their classrooms and using music as an effective teaching tool.
Music education is an integral component of students’ educational program, and Darrow provides many examples for music teachers to use in helping their students with hearing loss. This article serves as a helpful resource for all music instructors who wish to gain more insight into working with students with hearing impairment and equip them with the tools needed to succeed.
Research on the effects of music therapy on human response (emotional, physical, social and cognitive) has been extensive; however, results have demonstrated that such interventions can have a beneficial impact on individuals of all ages and are highly effective at treating specific health-related conditions or disabilities.
