The Gifts We Bring to Each Other: Reflections of a Music Therapist

You have heard the phrase, “The eyes are the window of the soul.”  I am sure this is a phrase that we can all relate to.  You may also have been told, “you are the apple of my eye!”

At this time of holidays, it is helpful to focus on what may seem small, but what in reality makes our world go around in communion with each other.  The answer and need of all people is to be acknowledged, validated, seen, and heard.  We all do this, perhaps without much thought.  A gift at this time of year is to be mindful of the connection that we give, as well as receive from each other. Sharing a smile, a joke, or a listening ear is a gift given, and a gift received to be thankful for. 

I am thankful for my career as a music therapist.  I feel it has made me more aware of what is important.  I have witnessed eyes brightening, smiles, and connection.  I have felt and seen this as a music therapist within my career, as well as from staff, families, and groups of clients that I have worked with. I believe that it is good to ponder and acknowledge what an important role we all play in each other's lives.

Here are some examples of highlights in my career as a music therapist:

My client lies in her reclining wheelchair amongst the large group of her peers.  My client smiles occasionally, and reaches out, yet rarely speaks.  All peers are experiencing memory loss.  The music of their youth is played brightly through my guitar.  Movement or instrument play is encouraged to increase/maintain physical ability, and to enhance self expression.   Names of all clients are sung within the context of the session, as well as individual nods are given to each client to focus on self autonomy and self esteem. Name that tune, fill in the lyric, or reminiscence is used to engage cognitive abilities.  Upon collecting instruments, and thanking each participant, my client clearly says to me, “You make us feel alive!”

My group of 8-10 seniors gather bi-weekly for the tonechimes group.  Several seniors have enjoyed music in their past, as in choir etc. One participant is a former music teacher, while others are new to a music group in general.  This group highlights goal areas related to socialization, group cohesiveness, self autonomy, physical movement, and cognitive skills.  

Opportunities for performance and performance planning are encouraged.  My group accounts for who is missing at rehearsal, and a participant goes to find our missing chimer.  Excitement and pride ensues on concert day as family attends.  One concert includes a member's granddaughter, with 7 great grandchildren! Her great-grandchildren stay to play the piano after the concert.  Most recently, I learned that one of my participants passed away as I saw her son in the elevator.  I gave my condolences to her son, saying that I will miss her. I stated that she always told me, “Chimes is my favorite group!”  Her son responded by saying, “Yes, that was the truth.”

My client is bright, talkative, and expresses, “I’m so happy!.”   My client has experienced trauma and loss in the past, and lives with a developmental disability.  Music is used as a tool for emotional expression and self expression through song writing, drum play, and dance. This client is a born dancer and leader.  She has taught my 56 year old body to dance to many new moves beyond my dance days of the 1980’s!  

Being a music therapist has brought me joy, patience, and appreciation.  It is a gift to see eyes light up.  In this holiday season, may you find a clear bright window through your eyes, as well as in those who you are with. 

Happy Holidays!! 

Sincerely, 

Michelle Visker, MT-BC