“Music is the universal language of mankind.”
― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
“Where words fail, music speaks.” ― Hans Christian Andersen
“Where words leave off, music begins.”
― Heinrich Heine
All of these quotes speak to the universal properties of music. Though we may not all speak the same language, rhythm and melody are understood be people of all nationalities and cultures. Recent studies have shown that even with a language barrier, individuals can understand the emotional context of a song based on how it sounds.
Often, our clients are not looking to talk, but instead they express themselves or learn by making music, moving with music, or listening to music. No matter the culture, rhythm and music are always present. Rhythm is with us through every part of every day, with every step, every breath, every heartbeat in time. Music therapists work with people of all ages, abilities, and disabilities. We work with people of all races, beliefs, faiths, and nationalities. We work in many countries around the world and use all kinds of music to treat each individual.