Embedding Innovation into the Counterpoint of Music Therapy Practice Today

Abstract

When Alexia founded Music as Therapy International, the music therapy profession seemed very different. Who has changed? The author or the profession? Or both? The author will present her experiences of being a threat, a novelty and now a welcome contributor to practice, and consider the changing professional context against which (and within which) her work has unfolded. The article will trace the development of Music as Therapy International's work in Romania, as the country's care system has progressed through dramatic reforms following the crisis in care revealed after the fall of Communism in 1989. The author will explore how the consequent portfolio of activities devised by the charity has since proven relevant in other countries and has become increasingly influential in the UK. Specific relevant projects will be presented, including the six-week introductory training project model (international), the distance learning programme (Romania), the training DVD (Rwanda), the UK continuing professional development seminars and interactive music-making (a university credit-rated course for UK practitioners working with under-5s). The paper will also refer to responses to these projects from the profession and the relevant practice of others over the years.