The History and Basic Tenets of Anthroposophical Music Therapy

Andrea Intveen,Jane Edwards

doi:10.15845/voices.v12i2.646

Abstract

The approach known as Anthroposophical Music Therapy (AnMt) was developed throughout the 20th century. In this paper we provide an historical and descriptive overview of the foundations, techniques and methods of AnMt for readers who are not familiar with this model of music therapy training and practice. We trace AnMt's origins from the systematic application of music in curative education in Germany, Austria and Switzerland through to its use in many countries of the world, with training programmes available in German and English speaking countries currently. We examined literature sources in German and English to glean information about the main foundations of this model. Course materials available from one programme of study were consulted to provide information about how this model is taught. This information was closely reviewed in order to be able to synthesise and present information about a. AnMt's development and current scope of practice, b. the contents of AnMt training, c. the therapeutic process in AnMt, and d. the use of music in AnMt. It is recommended that further efforts be undertaken from the leaders in AnMt, as well as the current professional associations in countries where it is practised, to consider the potential for its inclusion in the list of recognised trainings and models, if such a step would be considered useful for AnMt practitioners.

Highlights

Introduction and Purpose of the PaperThis paper aims to provide an introduction and overview of the music therapy approach practiced in Anthroposophical Music Therapy (AnMt)[1]
On the basis of the research undertaken for this review, we find support for the opinion that Anthroposophical Music Therapy (AnMt) is a highly developed music therapy approach with a distinctive rationale, and operating within clear guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and evaluation (Pütz, 2008)
Some of the basic tenets of anthroposophical music therapy (AnMt) have been presented in this paper, such as aspects connected to AnMt training, the different layers of the therapeutic process and some of the unique musical scales used in the approach

Summary

Introduction

This paper aims to provide an introduction and overview of the music therapy approach practiced in AnMt[1]. The paper provides information about the history and development of AnMt and seeks to bring together a description of the main tenets guiding and underpinning this practice. The recognition of many contemporary music therapy approaches and traditions is achieved through professional associations, and in many cases, subsequently through state recognition. This may be a future attainable goal for AnMt. it is not known to the authors whether AnMt practitioners strive to be state recognised. Some German AnMt practitioners are members of the DMtG (Deutsche Musiktherapeutische Gesellschaft) the professional organisation for all music therapists in Germany

Objectives

Conclusion