The Use of Improvisation for Developing Relatedness in the Adult Client

Abstract

Musical improvisation provides a unique experience of oneself in relation to others. When percussion and melodic percussion are used, improvisation becomes available to all regardless of prior musical training. Improvising music is special in that it allows a client to experience him or herself in relation to others on two levels, the actual and the symbolic: the actual, in the very real interaction of his or her sounds with those or others; the symbolic, in that the music contains expressions of emotions, thoughts, and memories. In this article relatedness and the dynamics of improvisation are explored. The improvisation session is described with reference to the instru­ ments used, techniques, and the therapist’s role. Three cases high­ light the work. A client with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, residual type, uses improvisation to begin to communicate. A resettlement group uses improvisation to prepare for and negotiate the experien­ ces of living together. A neurotic client uses improvisation to focus more on the present and work through issues of relatedness.