MusicWorks FAQs—
Music Therapy
3. What is the history
of music therapy as a health care profession?
Music has been used
as far back as from the time our pre-historic ancestors populated the world.
Ancient healers used music to drive away illness and restore health. Music
was used to relax and comfort people when they were challenged or incapable
of dealing with the rigors of everyday life. Historically, music therapy
became a recognized profession in the 1950's through the Veteran's Hospital
system. Doctors and nurses provided pianos and musical activities as a diversion
for all of the men returning from war. Keen observation noted that with music,
the soldiers spirit and attitudes improved during their recovery process.
Medical and educational leaders began formally studying the beneficial effects
of music and implementing programs in their clinics and schools.
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