Key Changes Music Therapy: An Extended Pilot Project in an Adult Mental Health Hospital Setting

Abstract

This article introduces an evolving research project based in an NHS adult in-patient mental health setting. The project was set up to assess the longer term benefits of music therapy for these client populations, and to enable and facilitate patients' personal growth. The background to the project and method of evaluation is described, including pre and post therapy evaluations from both patients and staff. Samples of data collected are presented. Recommendations are made for similar projects in music therapy. This was a collaborative project between the NHS setting and the local charity Key Changes Music Therapy, launched in 2008 to: “…promote the use of music to alleviate behavioural, emotional and physical difficulties, and to protect and promote good health by the use of music. Key Changes also aims to advance the education of the public concerning music as a means of therapy and to carry out and publish research” (Memorandum and articles, registered charity no: 1124102).