A Comprehensive Guide to Music Therapy Vs Music Lessons

In the vast world of musical exploration, understanding the nuances between music therapy and music lessons is crucial. We wanted to take a moment to outline the distinctive qualities of each, offering valuable insights into how music therapy and music lessons support different outcomes!


Music Therapy

Music therapy focuses on personalized goals and therapeutic outcomes utilizing the adaptability of music to support growth of the individual in specific ways. Board Certified Music Therapists are required to provide music therapy services to ensure a professional and evidence based approach to the therapeutic journey.
Music therapy does not necessarily entail learning how to play an instrument, but rather focuses on musical interaction in various ways, based on individual needs and goals.


Music Lessons

Music Lessons focus solely on musical knowledge attainment and instrument mastery. This tends to be a highly structured approach to learning a specific instrument, offered by educators with a background in both music and education. A single instrument is selected to be the focus of ongoing lessons, which may include musical theory education in addition to focused time spent hands on with that instrument.


Common Grounds of Music Therapy and Music Lessons

Music therapy and music lessons share several commonalities. Neither demands prior musical knowledge or skills, making them accessible to participants at all levels. Both avenues actively encourage participation in music-making, fostering a dynamic and engaging experience. A fundamental element in both is musical exploration, a key component that opens doors to a world of creative possibilities. Both pathways offer participants the chance for musical enrichment, creating valuable opportunities for individual fulfillment!


In A Snapshot:

Discover more from Mainstay Music Therapy, Inc.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading