Music Therapy Works Blog

Music Therapy Works' tributes to MTW Trustee, David Perkins, 1954-2019

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:19:48 GMT

John Clemson, MTW Chair of Trustees: onnections through music

"I knew David both as colleague and friend for almost thirty years. As Head of the Music Service in Birmingham, he laid the foundations and enabled the development of a now flourishing and vibrant service.

Throughout the last quarter century, and in a wide variety of roles, he remained constant in promoting the widest opportunities for all children, regardless of their circumstances, to access educational provision of the highest quality. He was open minded, happy to hear, and be persuaded

by the views of others.

Naturally collegiate in his approach but decisive when required, he was a

man of principle, with great integrity and total commitment. He had a vast appetite for work, paying close attention to detail, and was tenacious in attaining his goals. He was also great fun to work with.

All this was, however, only part of him. He was a devoted father and grandfather, widely read and cultured. When not attending school or Services for Education (S4E) concerts and events, he was an avid devotee of musical theatre, concerts, and bridge. Above all, his sense of humour was legendary with laughter often echoing from his office. It was a privilege and a real pleasure to work with him for all those years and I am truly grateful for his unwavering support.

Having played an important part in the establishment of Music Therapy Works, David had only recently become a Trustee but in that short time, made a real impact on the work of the Board."

Introducing our new Chief Exec!

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:19:46 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that Doug Bott will join us as our new Chief Executive starting 25th April 2024! Doug is not only a seasoned leader in driving positive social change through music but also the Artistic Director and co-founder of Open Up Music. His innovative work with the National Open Youth Orchestra has opened doors for young disabled musicians, creating new opportunities and showcasing their tremendous talents.

Doug will continue his role with Open Up Music, balancing his time and passion between both impactful organisations. He shares his enthusiasm: "I’m honoured to have been appointed Chief Executive of Music Therapy Works. We know that music therapy delivers profound personal and social benefits. My focus will be to secure a bright future for Music Therapy Works, building on the team’s achievements to ensure that these benefits can be experienced, appreciated, and celebrated as widely as possible."

Our Chair of the Board of Trustees, Sandra Bristoll, expressed her excitement, saying, "The trustees are really pleased to welcome Doug into the CEO role at Music Therapy Works given his background in charity leadership and his vision for our charity. We look forward to working with Doug to support our team of music therapists so that they can deliver more of the therapy we all feel so passionate about to those who need it."

Music Therapy Works is pleased to provide two workshops dedicated to the memory of: Philip Higgs

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:19:43 GMT

Each year Music Therapy Works provides a series of workshops and training events which are an opportunity for professionals and carers to learn how music can be used to support vulnerable individuals.

MTW provides workshops either free of charge, or at a financial loss as we believe in the importance of sharing the power of music to support vulnerable people, and in developing skills which can be transferred to others. We will be using the generous donation made by friends and family of Philip to allow us to provide two workshops.

Music Therapy Works is hugely grateful to receive a donation in the memory of: Jo Watkin

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:19:39 GMT

Jo's daughter, Jemma, says:

"The benefit of music to life was something my mum firmly believed in. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to play a musical instrument and took every opportunity herself to sing. Three days before she died, she was strumming away at the Severnside Ukulele Strummers Association - something she found to be a real tonic. She would have been happy that the money given at her funeral would be used to enable others to share in the joy and healing that music bring."

Enriching Lives with Music Therapy in Dementia Care

chiefexecutive@musictherapyworks.co.uk (Douglas Bott) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 13:43:37 GMT

Rekindling connections through music

Music therapy offers a unique avenue for connection and expression, particularly beneficial for individuals living with dementia. As dementia progresses, it often distorts the ways a person communicates and interacts with the world. However, music has the power to transcend these limitations, evoking memories, emotions, and a sense of connection that can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected.

Music as a Gateway to Memory

One of the most remarkable aspects of music therapy is its ability to tap into long-forgotten memories. Familiar melodies and rhythms can trigger the recall of past experiences and emotions, even in the advanced stages of dementia. This phenomenon occurs because musical memory is often preserved in dementia, stored in parts of the brain less affected by the disease. When a music therapist plays a song from someone’s youth, it can transport them back to those moments, allowing them to relive and share memories that might otherwise remain inaccessible.

Evoking Emotional Responses

Music therapy not only helps in recollecting memories but also plays a crucial role in regulating emotions. For many with dementia, the ability to manage emotional responses can diminish, leading to feelings of confusion and distress. Music provides a therapeutic outlet, offering comfort and reducing anxiety. Slow, soothing melodies can help induce relaxation and alleviate agitation, while upbeat tunes can stimulate and uplift spirits, fostering a sense of joy and well-being

Enhancing Communication

As dementia progresses, verbal communication can become challenging. Music therapy provides an alternative means of expression and interaction. Participating in music-making can help individuals with dementia engage with others without the need for words. For instance, rhythmic drumming or singing along to a familiar song can encourage participation and provide a sense of accomplishment and inclusion. Music therapists often use these activities to facilitate non-verbal communication, enabling patients to express their feelings and connect with others around them.

Fostering Social Connections

Isolation is a significant concern for those with dementia, as social skills deteriorate. Group music therapy sessions offer a community setting that fosters social interaction. These sessions are designed to encourage engagement through singing, playing instruments, or even just listening, creating a shared experience that can reduce feelings of isolation. For many, these group interactions are vital, providing regular social contact and the chance to forge new relationships based on shared experiences and enjoyment.

Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Music

The benefits of music therapy for individuals with dementia are profound and multifaceted. It not only enhances cognitive functions and emotional health but also enriches the lives of those affected by helping them reconnect with themselves and their communities. Music therapy provides essential moments of joy, calm, and mutual understanding, demonstrating that even when words are no longer sufficient, music can still speak volumes.

By integrating music therapy into dementia care, we can open doors to a part of the individual that was thought to be lost, demonstrating that the essence of a person remains, and can be reached through the universal language of music.

How Music Therapy Supports Emotional Well-being in Children

chiefexecutive@musictherapyworks.co.uk (Douglas Bott) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:54:17 GMT

Unlocking emotions through music to help

children thrive

Children experience a wide range of emotions as they grow and develop, and understanding and managing these emotions is a crucial part of their overall well-being. However, for many children, expressing emotions can be challenging, especially when they lack the vocabulary or confidence to articulate their feelings. This is where music therapy can play a vital role. Music therapy provides a non-verbal, creative outlet for children to explore and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

The Role of Music Therapy in Emotional Development

Music is a universal language that resonates with children in a profound way. From the rhythmic sounds of a drum to the soothing melody of a lullaby, music has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions. In music therapy, these natural connections are harnessed to help children better understand and manage their feelings.

Key Ways Music Therapy Supports Emotional Well-being in Children

Encourages Emotional Expression

Music therapy offers children a way to express their emotions without relying on words. Whether through singing, playing instruments, or moving to music, children can convey their feelings in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. This can be particularly beneficial for children who are shy, have communication difficulties, or are dealing with complex emotions like grief or anxiety.

Enhances Self-Awareness

Through music therapy, children learn to recognise and name their emotions. For example, a therapist might ask a child to choose a song that reflects how they’re feeling or create a piece of music that represents their current mood. This process helps children become more aware of their emotional states and understand that all emotions are valid and manageable.

Reduces Anxiety and Promotes Relaxation

Music therapy can be a soothing experience for children, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of music can create a sense of stability and calm, which is particularly helpful for children who struggle with anxiety or are going through a stressful time, such as starting a new school or dealing with family changes.

Builds Emotional Resilience

By engaging in music therapy, children learn coping strategies that can help them deal with difficult emotions. For instance, a therapist might teach a child to use music as a tool for self-soothing when they feel overwhelmed. Over time, these skills contribute to greater emotional resilience, helping children navigate challenges with confidence.

Fosters Positive Relationships

Music therapy often involves group activities, where children can make music together, share their creations, and support one another. These interactions help build social skills, empathy, and a sense of belonging, all of which are crucial for emotional well-being. Through shared musical experiences, children can form positive relationships that provide emotional support.

Conclusion

Music therapy is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance emotional well-being in children. By providing a creative and supportive space for emotional expression, music therapy helps children develop self-awareness, reduce anxiety, build resilience, and foster positive relationships. Whether the child is struggling with specific emotional challenges or simply needs a healthy outlet for their feelings, music therapy can offer valuable support.

If you’re interested in learning more about how music therapy can benefit your child, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at

Music Therapy Works.

Holiday "Holding"

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 11:06:30 GMT

Keeping clients in our minds during the summer break

Walking into a KS1 classroom this week, I was greeted with an army of Forkys. As a big fan of the new Toy Story 4 character and the movie’s exploration of his existential crisis, I was enthralled to find a family of real-life spork replicas winking at me from the windowsill. In a life-imitating-art moment, nine enthusiastic 6 year olds with social, emotional and mental health difficulties had been sticking, fastening and modelling for over an hour to fashion their very own Forky and transform some carefully curated ‘trash’ into a toy.

What struck me most in the pleasure and delight of the children’s sculptures, was the teaching assistant behind the end-of-term treat. She had listened to the children’s enthusiasm for the film and then gone to extraordinary lengths to source identical sporks (ridiculously tricky to track down) and all the additional materials needed. With heaps of patience and good humour, she had then helped the children to assemble and construct their very own 3D spork.

With all the preparation involved - coming up with the concept and executing it - I marvelled at the way that the teaching assistant would need to have held the children in her mind, not just in the classroom, but beyond.

In music therapy, we often turn to the child psychoanalyst, Donald Winnicott, to inform and frame our work. It was he who coined the phrase “holding” to describe the safe and supportive setting that a therapist creates through their direct engagement with each client. Critical to the work and its success, Winnicott believed that by providing a “holding environment”, feelings of insecurity could be addressed and a sense of trust and security promoted.

At this time of year, those of us working in schools settings move towards the final therapy session before the long summer break. We complete a countdown of sessions to ensure some understanding of ending, and sing songs of reassurance for recommencing therapy in September. We also consider how we “hold” our clients throughout the summer break.

Many educators, speech and language therapists, counsellors and support staff “hold” their students in their minds over the holiday period. There are several reasons to be concerned about this break from routine and therapy. If our clients are among the three million children finding themselves in poverty, they face higher risks of holiday hunger, due to the absence of school meals. Students who have increasingly thrived emotionally, developmentally and socially during the academic year may become stuck in a ‘summer slide’, through lack of skill stimulation, excessive device use, minimal peer-to-peer contact, and reduced exercise. Returning in September, extended support and reintegration back into an education setting can take several months to complete so that the child may recover and reacquire their previously attained skills. Sometimes our clients may feel we have, like others in their lives, abandoned them, and they struggle to believe we will return. Some trust may need to be re-established at the start of the new academic year before the deep work of therapy can recommence.

So how do we create a sense of safety and trust for our clients during periods of absence from the sessions? We may have talked about the imminent ending as early as possible to give children time to process the break and explore any feelings of anger, rejection, frustration or loss. Playing improvised or pre-composed songs such as Warren Zevon's wonderful "Keep me in your heart for a while."can successfully acknowledge high emotions and offer reassurances around endings. The shared and unified approach of singing together can both accommodate the clients own thoughts and the music therapist’s anticipation of seeing the client upon their on their return. We may remind students that despite transitioning to the holidays, the music therapy space, the meeting time, instruments and the therapist themselves will all be there for them again in September.

With all this in mind, breaks can be important and necessary because during these times, the therapist can look after themselves. So that when the mindful holiday “holding” is over and we can return to meeting our clients, we are better restored and equipped to do the best possible job we can.

Top 7 Instruments in Music Therapy

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 08:31:20 GMT

What are the best tools in the music therapy room?

Every music therapist has their favourite set of instruments for their music therapy sessions. They know the resilient and reliable power of these sounds to enhance, empower and liberate their client. To help them soar and succeed in their session.

Why do client or therapist choose what they choose? Well, music therapists will often start with their cue from the client. What do they want to play today and what will best compliment or support their music? Whether the therapist is essentially a keyboard player or a guitarist, a saxophonist or a cellist, they will need a whole plethora of percussion, blowing and plucking instruments to give their client a range of choice for a particular moment, mood or motivation.

Here are the top 7 resources we have come to rely on for their practicality, accessibility and highly successful music-making potential:

7. Hand-held percussion
Special shout-outs need to go to clatterpillars with their sensory and creative potential; guiros for their robust and unique sound; frog guiros for their raspy sound and inviting form; Boomwhackers which are great for making rhythms and gross motor skills practice; cabasas for their allround shininess, great sound and durability and finally beaters, because they are way-in for many people to connect with and relate to a percussion instrument.

6. Melodica
Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, melodicas are blown instruments with metal reeds inside which can produce a melody or chord. Robust, mobile and easily accessible for many clients, this instrument can provide a powerful ‘voice’ for the client as it can make a loud, strident and resonant sound. An audible match for any piano, the client can appear to feel ‘empowered’ by having their very own keyboard instrument controlled by their own breath and fingers. Given its brash tone, the melodica is not for everyone but for some, it can provide a highly interactive and effective way of improvising, turn-taking and duetting together in the session.

5. Maracas

Maracas are an easily accessible instrument for many children and adults. They can instantly elicit a smile, produce a positive response and require very little effort to produce any sound. Used frequently in sessions, maracas can get worn out as time goes on and generally become less robust!

Shakers or maracas can help to support social skill development, gross and fine motor skills, And because they’re so simple to play, maracas can create success-based musical activities where individuals instantly improve their self-esteem, connect with others and play with confidence in their therapeutic experience.

4. Tambourine

Despite its simplicity, the tambourine can prove to be an essential part of the music therapist's kit. Portable, accessible and rewarding in its timbre, tambourines can be used with children and adults alike in all sorts of ways: sharing; turn-taking; movement and musical games to improve coordination, social skills and motivation to play. Shaken or tapped, they allow for many different levels of achievement and can be adapted to ensure that the individual experiences a sense of success and feelings of accomplishment as they remember a tricky rhythmic pattern or pass a ‘sleeping tambourine’ around their music therapy group.

Sometimes these instruments can take a real pounding, so we have found that good quality tambourines not only last longer but also produce a much more pleasing tone and sensory feedback.

3. Djembe Drums

A thoroughly versatile tool in music therapy, djembe drums can create sounds which resonate with all individuals at every developmental stage. The organising and unique structure of rhythm can produce far-reaching effects on the brain, influencing thinking, perception and learning ability. Non-verbal communication skills such as turn-taking and sharing can bridge the gap towards improving verbal skills, reducing a sense of isolation and encourage positive changes in mood and emotional well-being.

Creative djembe drumming can provide unique and therapeutic opportunities for the release of negative emotions, decreased anxiety and tension and renewed energy levels. Where an individual plays the drums extremely fast and loud, they may even be able to release pent-up feelings of tension or frustration but within a safe and non-threatening environment.

As well as individual work, we build sets of djembe drums that can be utilised in group music therapy sessions. Drum circles can act as powerful facilitators for increased social connection with others, reduced feelings of isolation and improved self-esteem through self-actualisation.

2. Guitars and ukeleles

As big fans of guitars and ukes in the space, we have come to rely upon our fretted friends for their accessibility to both the therapist and client. Even where an MT has minimal guitar-playing skills, tuning the strings to DAD-GAD can provide confident accompaniments to songs and improvisations as well as being able to offer strumming and plucking opportunities to individuals of all abilities.

1. Piano
Considered to be one of the most important and central instruments in music therapy, the piano can open doors to a client’s world like no other instrument. Playing in parallel, both client and therapist can explore unique opportunities for non-verbal connection in an expressive, emotional and powerful way.

Exploring the keys together can hugely enhance an individual’s experience of themselves in music, reflecting their identity, personality and journey. It can support fine motor movement skills and accelerate the client towards reaching their therapeutic aims and goals.

We mainly use digital upright pianos or keyboards as they have a superior sound quality, durability, require no tuning and can last for decades. Yamaha Piagerros are a team favourite as they have hardly any buttons, so far less distraction!

Instruments and their potential to invoke change through creative play cannot be underestimated in the room. Observing our clients' instrument decisions and supporting their choices through music can increase our understanding of the individual and give them the best possible means to communicate their experiences and emotions.

If you are interested in finding out more about how our music therapists can provide a range of bespoke services to suit your clients' strengths and needs, please feel free to contact us here .