Music Therapy Perspectives Vol. 13 – Sustainability
In this issue of Music Therapy Perspectives, we explore sustainability in music therapy practice. This topic has been underrepresented in the music therapy literature for some time, so we want to investigate why and provide practical examples on how a sustainable approach to music therapy can be achieved.
To develop a sustainable music therapy program, the first step is to identify its focus with close collaboration of the community. This could be an area of local concern that is well-known or an emerging challenge. Once identified, everyone can be part of finding solutions through music therapy.
This step is essential in the process as it allows participants to take ownership and commitment for its success. Furthermore, music therapists will gain a better insight into the issues and difficulties facing their community, enabling them to address them more effectively through their music therapy work.
The final step in any sustainable program should be creating a self-sustainable outcome, using the music therapy skills and knowledge acquired throughout the experience. The therapist’s role here is to facilitate this by developing goals and outcomes which are achievable by the community; these can then be translated into tangible music objectives which everyone can work towards independently.
Capacity building is an essential aspect of music therapy programs and it’s evident across other fields of the profession. Through capacity building initiatives, individuals and communities are given the tools to maintain and build upon what they’ve learned through music therapy work – ultimately improving both their lives and environments over time.
