Music Wellness is a growing field where the performer consciously taps into the healing power of music and employs that power in the music. What may to the onlooker appear to be an entertainment style of performance, the performance is actually done with a healing intent and purpose. The performer is constantly and deliberately reading the audience so that she can alter or change the style, mood or emphasis of the music to best harmonize with both the moment and audience.

Music Wellness is not Music Therapy, and the music is therapeutic. The American Music Therapy Association defines Music Therapy as "...the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program." To me, Music Wellness can be simply summed up as bringing a smile to the heart of all who listen.

Music effects us in many positive ways ~ it can promote relaxation and restfulness, give support and comfort, reduce stress, anxiety and fear, and reanimate memories.  In it's truest form, music is a powerful vehicle which creates an atmosphere conducive for healing to occur.  What are the benefits of listening to a piece of music live rather than on a cd?

A performer can be considered 'self-igniting'.  The performer and the music become one, playing off each other and firing each other up.  The spirit of the music conveys itself to the audience, inviting the audience to become a part of the performance.  When the performer and audience begin to interact, the fun begins!

Another way to look at it is:  frequency (sound) + intent = healing.  During each performance I do (I'm not a music therapist), I am consciously and continuously reading the audience so that I can alter or change the style, mood or emphasis of the music to best harmonize with both the moment and audience.

Live music creates community and has a socializing effect on those present.  What better way to experience music than with family, friends and food?  Can you remember the last time you attended an ice cream social in the park with live music and had a truly miserable time?

Where people are mostly confined to their residence, I've noticed that simply by walking in with my instrument, a breath of excitement and anticipation comes to the air. 

Caretakers, family members and friends who are present benefit from live music. Everyone starts to smile a little more, spirits are lifted.  Caretakers begin to hum or sing along as they are working.  Family members and friends sing along, clap along and call out requests.

Requests are a boundless benefit of live music.  I can not recall the number of times I've been asked to play 'Danny Boy'.  I am humbled to honor each request as I see the tears and/or smiles the music brings to the person requesting the song.

As you explore and discover ways to bring live music into your facility, I invite you to consider a series of programs instead of one time events.  This provides continuity as well as creating and cultivating a musical atmosphere beneficial for the residents, staff and guests of your facility.

Contact Janet Roper at 952-474-8273 or janetroper@mac.com to find out more about the benefits of live music, schedule a performance or discover more ways to bring live music into your facility.