Using Music Technology in Music Therapy With Populations Across the Life Span in Medical and Educational Programs

Abstract

Despite the call for information about using music technologies in music therapy over 20 years ago, few resources have been realized to guide practitioners in the craft of using these tools in practice. A small number of published case studies describe the use of music technology in practice with adults with neurological needs and adolescents with behavioral disorders. The relevance of music technologies in therapy with other populations of different ages is less clear. Training in using these tools remains outside of standard music therapy curricula. Detailed descriptions of methods in using technology remain illusive. Recent exploratory research indicates that music technologies are used in music therapy with populations across the life span. This article presents detailed case descriptions where music technology is used with children, adolescents, adults, and elders in medical, palliative, and educational settings. Lastly, guidance is offered for establishing a technology service within music therapy programs.