Music and the Brain
“The basis for KNV Music Therapy lies in the belief that music is a biological language and through a system of shared, extended, and optimized neuronal networks, music provides a means for habilitation and rehabilitation of functioning!”
Neurologic Music Therapy
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is defined as the therapeutic application of music with cognitive, sensory, and motor dysfunctions.
NMT is based on a neuroscience model of music perception and production and the influence of music on functional changes in nonmusical brain and behavior functions. This neuroscience model is referred to as the Rational-Scientific Mediating Model (R-SMM) and contains four steps:
- Musical response: neurological, physiological, and psychological foundations of musical behavior
- Nonmusical parallel: processes in nonmusical brain and behavior function
- Mediating model: influence of music on nonmusical brain and behavior function
- Clinical research: therapeutic effects of music
Treatment techniques in NMT are based on scientific research and use the Transformational Design Model (TDM) to standardize and apply the most beneficial music interventions. The TDM contains five steps:
- Diagnostic and functional assessment
- Therapeutic goals and objectives
- Functional and nonmusical therapeutic exercises and stimuli
- Translation from nonmusic exercises to therapeutic music exercises
- Generalization of therapeutic learning to real-world application
The information provided above is detailed in the Rhythm, Music, and the Brain illustration by Michael H. Thaut.
Important Points
- Music is processed throughout the brain alongside other areas such as speech, motor, and cognition.
- NMT techniques are based on scientific research.
- Treatment interventions are standardized to provide quality and effective musical experiences.
- NMT is committed to providing evidence-based practice.
Who benefits from Music Therapy?
