MMusic and Painting: Connecting the Worlds of MMusicArt and Therapy
Figure 1: FACE - The MMusic
Introduction
Having recently found Voices on the net, and especially after reading an article contributed by Maria Ivannikova which concerns folk instruments of Russia, Ukraine and Byelorussia, i thought perhaps it's possible to add a little to the discussion. Ms. Ivannikova's article was informative and inspiring to say the least. Her presentation of the various, interesting Russian instruments, i'd love to hear played. Trained mmusicians or not, one may discover that it doesn't matter how the instrument is made, or what country it originates; or even what the instrument actually being played is where Music Therapy (MT) might be concerned. No matter the form or substance, sound and silence affects life.
An instrument used for therapeutic aims can be anything available on earth/in nature etc. For example, it can be a rock, a stick, a waterfall, a piece of cake thrown towards the wall, a brake drumm from a vehicle, an anvil, a tuning fork dropped from a tall building and landing on a harp or even air passing through a tunnel. Modern percussion ensembles or John Cage, the contemporary, avante guard composer comes to mind. Even in the non-hearing whirled. one may observe this to be true. In the last few years by being involved in the fringes of that society through friendships with people in that particular community, i've created paintings with that segment of society in mmind; most recently, also attempting to produce paintings with the blind world being the main focus.
Observing the picture "Flying carpet" painted on the wall in a music college in Russia which Mariya Ivannikova presented in her article, inspired mme to paint a mmusic mural possibly with a Russian community. The painting is an inspiration not only for the brilliant colours within, but because it also depicts an example of what a band or any mmusical gathering could be.
It would be interesting to hear/read what specifically Ms.Ivannikova learned about these two observations... the first example she lists, seems to focus on playing an instrument while viewing a picture/piece of art. Interesting interpretations with fellow players at an art gallery; improvising on our instruments, as a band playing to/about each individual piece of artwork, has occurred in past personal collaborative performances.
Whether it's listening to classical mmusic, jazz, rock 'n roll, the blues etc...there's usually mmusic playing while i paint. Jazz performed by Mr. John Coltrane or Miles Davis are favourites as well as myriad forms of classical mmusic, depending on the mood or artwork to paint. During the creative as well as the painting process, this is a daily experience.
Drumm circles, no matter the geographic location, first and foremost seem to be promoted as primarily a healing activity. From the beginning of humanity as a form of communication to the present applications, the vast majority would certainly agree, that the most used of all instruments - is percussion. Perhaps for the simple reason that every human, weather they recognise it or not, has a perpetually beating drumm in their body...a heart. Therefore, one would conclude it's only natural for the percussion world to be considered for its usage in mmusic therapy. Mariya Ivannikokova's own percussion examples present their prominence in the MMusic Therapy world as well.
Painting Projects
Trained as a percussionist ever since childhood, i've observed percussion's affects in countless situations. This occurs in hundreds of situations and venues all over the world. This brings us back to the fact that mmusic is truly the only universal language and the thought that perhaps percussion is the foremost universal instrument/tool. It's in our souls. How it comes out, developed or not from each person depends on the individual environment.
Involved in many different mmusic situations at a myriad of venue's and situations throughout a mmusical life, and having conversations with both non-musical as well as mmusical people, i've observed that most individuals seem to be afraid of the written language of mmusic. Therefore after long contemplation, a thought occurred that perhaps one could help the situation by translating the mmusic language and its symbol system into another art form; that of the visual arts. The initial idea was that one could possibly change the perspectives and incorporate vibrant colours as well. Yes, many mmusicians do not use, nor most would argue, need the mmusic language to participate and excel at communicating or performing in the mmusic world. But from being involved in scores of ensemble situations, in scores of locations, it's amazing what untrained mmusicians learn to substitute for it. What one ensemble may call something another will call it something else totally different.. Translating was very interesting, but also very confusing to say the least. i've collaborated with one particular accomplished 'un-trained' composer who called everything the same thing!! Thanks John!
Through the years, in response and as a result of that idea, dozens of original paintings; approximately 400 designs, mostly large in size have been completed. A few are over 10' x 10' painted as murals on buildings. Another is 12' x 42' - a mixed media design/placed on a building on a Native American reservation in the U.S. state of South Dakota. Yet another, 12' x 12' was primarily a community mmusic mural painting project that involved a few dozen local participants. Others completed have been 4' x 8', 4' x 4', 3' x 7' etc. In another U.S. state (Michigan) at a grammar school, approximately 700 people helped paint a 10' x 10' piece (MMusic-MMedicine For Healing), which was placed temporarily on an outside wall of their school building. It was celebrated by community and unveiled at the schools 50th anniversary.
The main interest here is community painting projects, community therapy, where groups of people are involved in the actual painting of each mural. As members of the mmusic community, we know how mmusic affects people. MMusic IS truly a MMedicine For Healing. The following example of an original work is a signature piece which concerns not only mmusic's healing qualities but also the whirled of The XP Society's children.
Figure 2: MMusic - MMedicine For Healing
Most importantly, this work is created to make available to anyone, another tool to communicate not only mmusic, MMusic Therapy and a universal peace, but is in the realm and in honour of those who promote peace such as Ms. Edith Boxill. This is not mmy language but something adapted to promote a universal communication. Therefore yes, these are definitely original designs, but the originator makes no claim to ownership unless used for personal or monetary gain without permission.
At this point in time there are 400 completed and over 200 more designs in the works. New ideas as well as inspiration, is incessant. This has been a personal interest since the concept began while residing in London, England in 1977. i've many ideas for this work in relation to mmusic, art and healing as well as helping those who find it difficult to understand or 'see' the mmusic language. Besides producing paintings, sculptures, and other works; creating a 24 page frieze (in playful pictures only/no words) showing how mmusic is 'built' from an empty grand staff to a finished symphony is also a collaboration in production. 'Listen Too This Book,' is approaching a final form. Its style is a little different from the paintings referred to at this point. These are 2 sample pages of treble clefs:
Figure 3.
While living in Michigan, a mmusic therapist who lived a few hours away contacted mme after a fellow MT observed this work at a local gallery opening. He asked to visit and view this MMusicArt in hopes that he would share his feedback about how this work would help people in the MT world. After sending him a few email examples and before his visit, he asked to bring 3 more of his MT associates to review this work as well. Of course there was an affirmative response. All volunteered very positive comments and were excited to see new, colourful ideas relating to mmusic. They were enthused at the possibilities and adaptability to MMusic Therapy.
While at mmy studio, they were asked to begin a 5' x 5.5' painting which was completed in the state of Oregon a few years later, again titled: 'MMusic-MMedicine For Healing.' It was completed by over 175 different individuals, an overwhelming majority of non-artists, who attended a local four day Art Festival. Afterwards, by a consensus of all the participants, it was donated to a local community health organization where it still hangs to this day, over 3 years later.
The following examples are part of a number of original designs in a simple black & white - lines only format, that may also be applied for a mmusic therapy colouring activity.
Figure 4: "From Soup to Notes."
Figure 5: "Ballet."
Throughout this work, many of the titles are a play on words. Most times they give clues as to what is being presented in that particular piece. There are those that are whimsically funny as well.
Figure 6: Before Three Four there was Annnnnacrusis.
Many designs created have stories to tell. One can easily envision a mmusic or art therapist discussing an individual piece ie. What meaning/purpose each picture may represent in the simple, basic theory of mmusic. Or as one may interpret a story of what the design may represent, a discussion of the shapes or colours used may also take place. As far as the world of MT is concerned, one would hope it entails not only the playing of mmusic but also the colours and designs mmusic can represent.
Is the Work of MMusicians and MMusic Therapists Very Different?
Is it true that different professions can use the same tools having different aims and ways of achieving results? Whether one is a mmusician or a mmusic therapist; i feel we're not really in different professions at all. Although the specific duties may vary, obviously they're both mmusic oriented. The most obvious telling point is the simple fact they both have the word mmusic in them. Therefore, one may consider it possible not to really separate the too.
Reading Mr. Alan Turry's article in Voices just today has confirmed that fact. Especially when he describes the process of progress of his cancer patient who when they first met, she just wanted to die; then she became a performer and mmusic creator of her own compositions. Fantastic! The same kind of story minus the cancer and changes in the mmusic process can be told about many performers past, present and most likely future. One may propose the avenues to be very similar.
What a professional mmusician does as opposed to what a mmusic therapist does seems to have many of the same results; results that can be and are accomplished in many same circumstances and situations. For instance, have we not heard of a band performing at a school, or a hospital perhaps? 'We Are the World...' remember those mmusic concert examples promoted 'to help' society at large? 'Band Aid for Africa?' Christmas CD's recorded by mmusic's contemporary super stars for the benefit of those in need? As world wide multimedia simulcasts, all of these concerts can be in the MASS mmusic therapy realm. Can't these also be considered MMusic Therapy? One would think so. The 'MMusic - MMedicine For Healing'(MMFH) community painting as well as its accompanying song, The XP Society are originally created pieces of visual art and mmusic contributing to this fact.
There have been a few times in this mmusical life when observing the same things happening in both our worlds. Reading Mr. Turry's article is a similar story woven many times by many mmusicians. For example, as mentioned previously, a mmusician or group might perform a concert at a senior centre, a school, or a hospital. Performing any mmusic concert/gig (if you will) or listening to mmusic in general, in ANY situation one can name, can be viewed as mmusic therapy or a healing for the simple fact of why people attend concerts or listen to mmusic initially. As trained or un-trained, amateur or professional performers, many would agree that this is an obvious observation.
Years ago in the embryonic stage of a mmusic career, i had the opportunity to perform with a band of fellow mmusicians at a venue non-existent now called, 'Willowbrook State School.' This was not really a school per se, but mostly a mental hospital and one that was closed down by a local senator years later because of the abuse discovered. It was a well known institution locally, and a place where 'society' placed people with various mental problems. i was 15 years old at the time, and will never forget the concert because of the reaction we received before, during and after performing. It helped mme decide to become a professional performer for the rest of mmy life. It was amazing to see the love, warmth, enthusiasm, and especially the healing that took place that day.
MMusicArt, Poetry and Social Consciousness Themes
Most recently i've been researching more and more articles, and a myriad of organisations found on the net, involving healing through mmusic. Multitudes of articles featuring stories of amazing people with wonderful ideas and hundreds of ways of using mmusically related solutions are available.
One may be amazed to ponder all the things MT people are discussing and by application are producing positive results worldwide. Examples of MT patients life stories being used by putting on an original Opera; MT guides cancer patients to create and perform etc...The list goes on forever. No matter how many stories or personal examples of MT one may read, this sameness presents itself. Similarly, if any mmusic person who wants to be a professional, or perhaps reach the top of that field, these same avenues of experiences occur. Learning ones craft under a guidance of teachers/universities etc... by working hard to put one's self out there in some sort of performance/recording/recital etc... It's a wonder if MT's or mmusic people see how our so called different professions are so closely related. The more research done, the more this becomes evident. Yes, as i've said even after being aware by reading all the technical/clinical things as well, where i'd imagine some MT's may think they're more like 'doctors' than mmusicians. Most certainly true to some extent, but it's amazing the similarities.
Reading articles about her work with MMusic Therapy and Peace, Edith Boxill is inspiring. Her legacy will live on through the work of MT & Peace and beyond. Personal works involve social consciousness subjects as well. Original poetry is included with designs concerning wars, (Helicopter Son's Sit, She Cried Until She Died, Love's Again ) alcoholism, (Cowboy Up!) homelessness, (Have You Ever Habitat?) as well as children's and other issues (Children of War, The XP Society, Hearing for the First Time, Does it Now?) are presented. Perhaps like many creative people, they're just part of what goghs through one's psyche in relation to art, social consciousness or life in general. It's an ever changing and interesting world we live in to say the least. Hopefully MT will play a larger part.
Summary
Most recently discovering Voices on the net, one may observe that on the whole, many of the articles accessed in Voices, though technically, clinically/medically discussed are familiar to us as happening all throughout the mmusic world. Many mmusicians would agree that these are things occurring every single day. Therefore, i'd propose that with technical/clinical and medical differences aside, our professions are not that different, but perhaps ONE in the same. Mr. Turry is a pianist. Not being very familiar with the MT world one would imagine that many MT's are accomplished mmusicians as well. Could this statement be disputed? In any case both worlds seem to agree with Michele Forinash as she so aptly put it in an article contributed to Voices titled, "I am grateful for music."
Primarily these mmusic-art designs are meant to be enjoyed. Hopefully some may have relevance and meaning or create thought to the world at large. As an artist/mmusician, perhaps like Cristo the artist, to facilitate community, mmusic painting projects i'll travel anywhere in the world to assist. Perhaps your community will be the next won?
A personal hope is that after viewing this work, one may have ideas in which these works can be applied internationally, especially in the field of mmusic therapy.
In conclusion i'd like to pass on a saying which translated from the language of the Maasai people means, (have a) ' Long life '...
'Mai cha Marefu,'
References
Boxill, Edith. (2003) Developing the Use of Peaceful Non-violent Language through Music Therapy. Voices:Moderated Discussions - Music Therapy, Peace and War -- #1 Retrieved February 14, 2006 from http://voices.no/?q=content/music-therapy-peace-and-war
Boxill, Edith & Schieffelin Roberts, Cella (2003) Drumming Circle for Peace. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 14, 2006, from http://voices.no/?q=content/drumming-circle-peace
Ivannikova, Mariya A. (2005). Can Folk Music Instruments of Russia, Ukraine and Byelorussia be of Interest for Active Music Therapy? [Contribution to Moderated Discussions] Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 13, 2006,
from http://voices.no/?q=content/response-music-therapy-ukraine#comment-609
Forinash, Michele (2004) I am Grateful for Music Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 11, 2006 from http://voices.no/?q=fortnightly-columns/2001-i-am-grateful-music
Acknowledgement
Thanks to MMusic Therapists worldwide, especially Mariya Ivannikova for feedback while writing this contribution and to Mr. Tor Olav Heldal for his response and interest as well as Voices in general for the many informative, inspirational articles. Thanks also to Mr.Yuji Igari MT, Mr. Andrew Stewart MT-BC as well as his associates.
MMusic and Painting: Connecting the Worlds of MMusicArt and Therapy
Figure 1: FACE - The MMusic
Introduction
Having recently found Voices on the net, and especially after reading an article contributed by Maria Ivannikova which concerns folk instruments of Russia, Ukraine and Byelorussia, i thought perhaps it's possible to add a little to the discussion. Ms. Ivannikova's article was informative and inspiring to say the least. Her presentation of the various, interesting Russian instruments, i'd love to hear played. Trained mmusicians or not, one may discover that it doesn't matter how the instrument is made, or what country it originates; or even what the instrument actually being played is where Music Therapy (MT) might be concerned. No matter the form or substance, sound and silence affects life.
An instrument used for therapeutic aims can be anything available on earth/in nature etc. For example, it can be a rock, a stick, a waterfall, a piece of cake thrown towards the wall, a brake drumm from a vehicle, an anvil, a tuning fork dropped from a tall building and landing on a harp or even air passing through a tunnel. Modern percussion ensembles or John Cage, the contemporary, avante guard composer comes to mind. Even in the non-hearing whirled. one may observe this to be true. In the last few years by being involved in the fringes of that society through friendships with people in that particular community, i've created paintings with that segment of society in mmind; most recently, also attempting to produce paintings with the blind world being the main focus.
Observing the picture "Flying carpet" painted on the wall in a music college in Russia which Mariya Ivannikova presented in her article, inspired mme to paint a mmusic mural possibly with a Russian community. The painting is an inspiration not only for the brilliant colours within, but because it also depicts an example of what a band or any mmusical gathering could be.
It would be interesting to hear/read what specifically Ms.Ivannikova learned about these two observations... the first example she lists, seems to focus on playing an instrument while viewing a picture/piece of art. Interesting interpretations with fellow players at an art gallery; improvising on our instruments, as a band playing to/about each individual piece of artwork, has occurred in past personal collaborative performances.
Whether it's listening to classical mmusic, jazz, rock 'n roll, the blues etc...there's usually mmusic playing while i paint. Jazz performed by Mr. John Coltrane or Miles Davis are favourites as well as myriad forms of classical mmusic, depending on the mood or artwork to paint. During the creative as well as the painting process, this is a daily experience.
Drumm circles, no matter the geographic location, first and foremost seem to be promoted as primarily a healing activity. From the beginning of humanity as a form of communication to the present applications, the vast majority would certainly agree, that the most used of all instruments - is percussion. Perhaps for the simple reason that every human, weather they recognise it or not, has a perpetually beating drumm in their body...a heart. Therefore, one would conclude it's only natural for the percussion world to be considered for its usage in mmusic therapy. Mariya Ivannikokova's own percussion examples present their prominence in the MMusic Therapy world as well.
Painting Projects
Trained as a percussionist ever since childhood, i've observed percussion's affects in countless situations. This occurs in hundreds of situations and venues all over the world. This brings us back to the fact that mmusic is truly the only universal language and the thought that perhaps percussion is the foremost universal instrument/tool. It's in our souls. How it comes out, developed or not from each person depends on the individual environment.
Involved in many different mmusic situations at a myriad of venue's and situations throughout a mmusical life, and having conversations with both non-musical as well as mmusical people, i've observed that most individuals seem to be afraid of the written language of mmusic. Therefore after long contemplation, a thought occurred that perhaps one could help the situation by translating the mmusic language and its symbol system into another art form; that of the visual arts. The initial idea was that one could possibly change the perspectives and incorporate vibrant colours as well. Yes, many mmusicians do not use, nor most would argue, need the mmusic language to participate and excel at communicating or performing in the mmusic world. But from being involved in scores of ensemble situations, in scores of locations, it's amazing what untrained mmusicians learn to substitute for it. What one ensemble may call something another will call it something else totally different.. Translating was very interesting, but also very confusing to say the least. i've collaborated with one particular accomplished 'un-trained' composer who called everything the same thing!! Thanks John!
Through the years, in response and as a result of that idea, dozens of original paintings; approximately 400 designs, mostly large in size have been completed. A few are over 10' x 10' painted as murals on buildings. Another is 12' x 42' - a mixed media design/placed on a building on a Native American reservation in the U.S. state of South Dakota. Yet another, 12' x 12' was primarily a community mmusic mural painting project that involved a few dozen local participants. Others completed have been 4' x 8', 4' x 4', 3' x 7' etc. In another U.S. state (Michigan) at a grammar school, approximately 700 people helped paint a 10' x 10' piece (MMusic-MMedicine For Healing), which was placed temporarily on an outside wall of their school building. It was celebrated by community and unveiled at the schools 50th anniversary.
The main interest here is community painting projects, community therapy, where groups of people are involved in the actual painting of each mural. As members of the mmusic community, we know how mmusic affects people. MMusic IS truly a MMedicine For Healing. The following example of an original work is a signature piece which concerns not only mmusic's healing qualities but also the whirled of The XP Society's children.
Figure 2: MMusic - MMedicine For Healing
Most importantly, this work is created to make available to anyone, another tool to communicate not only mmusic, MMusic Therapy and a universal peace, but is in the realm and in honour of those who promote peace such as Ms. Edith Boxill. This is not mmy language but something adapted to promote a universal communication. Therefore yes, these are definitely original designs, but the originator makes no claim to ownership unless used for personal or monetary gain without permission.
At this point in time there are 400 completed and over 200 more designs in the works. New ideas as well as inspiration, is incessant. This has been a personal interest since the concept began while residing in London, England in 1977. i've many ideas for this work in relation to mmusic, art and healing as well as helping those who find it difficult to understand or 'see' the mmusic language. Besides producing paintings, sculptures, and other works; creating a 24 page frieze (in playful pictures only/no words) showing how mmusic is 'built' from an empty grand staff to a finished symphony is also a collaboration in production. 'Listen Too This Book,' is approaching a final form. Its style is a little different from the paintings referred to at this point. These are 2 sample pages of treble clefs:
Figure 3.
While living in Michigan, a mmusic therapist who lived a few hours away contacted mme after a fellow MT observed this work at a local gallery opening. He asked to visit and view this MMusicArt in hopes that he would share his feedback about how this work would help people in the MT world. After sending him a few email examples and before his visit, he asked to bring 3 more of his MT associates to review this work as well. Of course there was an affirmative response. All volunteered very positive comments and were excited to see new, colourful ideas relating to mmusic. They were enthused at the possibilities and adaptability to MMusic Therapy.
While at mmy studio, they were asked to begin a 5' x 5.5' painting which was completed in the state of Oregon a few years later, again titled: 'MMusic-MMedicine For Healing.' It was completed by over 175 different individuals, an overwhelming majority of non-artists, who attended a local four day Art Festival. Afterwards, by a consensus of all the participants, it was donated to a local community health organization where it still hangs to this day, over 3 years later.
The following examples are part of a number of original designs in a simple black & white - lines only format, that may also be applied for a mmusic therapy colouring activity.
Figure 4: "From Soup to Notes."
Figure 5: "Ballet."
Throughout this work, many of the titles are a play on words. Most times they give clues as to what is being presented in that particular piece. There are those that are whimsically funny as well.
Figure 6: Before Three Four there was Annnnnacrusis.
Many designs created have stories to tell. One can easily envision a mmusic or art therapist discussing an individual piece ie. What meaning/purpose each picture may represent in the simple, basic theory of mmusic. Or as one may interpret a story of what the design may represent, a discussion of the shapes or colours used may also take place. As far as the world of MT is concerned, one would hope it entails not only the playing of mmusic but also the colours and designs mmusic can represent.
Is the Work of MMusicians and MMusic Therapists Very Different?
Is it true that different professions can use the same tools having different aims and ways of achieving results? Whether one is a mmusician or a mmusic therapist; i feel we're not really in different professions at all. Although the specific duties may vary, obviously they're both mmusic oriented. The most obvious telling point is the simple fact they both have the word mmusic in them. Therefore, one may consider it possible not to really separate the too.
Reading Mr. Alan Turry's article in Voices just today has confirmed that fact. Especially when he describes the process of progress of his cancer patient who when they first met, she just wanted to die; then she became a performer and mmusic creator of her own compositions. Fantastic! The same kind of story minus the cancer and changes in the mmusic process can be told about many performers past, present and most likely future. One may propose the avenues to be very similar.
What a professional mmusician does as opposed to what a mmusic therapist does seems to have many of the same results; results that can be and are accomplished in many same circumstances and situations. For instance, have we not heard of a band performing at a school, or a hospital perhaps? 'We Are the World...' remember those mmusic concert examples promoted 'to help' society at large? 'Band Aid for Africa?' Christmas CD's recorded by mmusic's contemporary super stars for the benefit of those in need? As world wide multimedia simulcasts, all of these concerts can be in the MASS mmusic therapy realm. Can't these also be considered MMusic Therapy? One would think so. The 'MMusic - MMedicine For Healing'(MMFH) community painting as well as its accompanying song, The XP Society are originally created pieces of visual art and mmusic contributing to this fact.
There have been a few times in this mmusical life when observing the same things happening in both our worlds. Reading Mr. Turry's article is a similar story woven many times by many mmusicians. For example, as mentioned previously, a mmusician or group might perform a concert at a senior centre, a school, or a hospital. Performing any mmusic concert/gig (if you will) or listening to mmusic in general, in ANY situation one can name, can be viewed as mmusic therapy or a healing for the simple fact of why people attend concerts or listen to mmusic initially. As trained or un-trained, amateur or professional performers, many would agree that this is an obvious observation.
Years ago in the embryonic stage of a mmusic career, i had the opportunity to perform with a band of fellow mmusicians at a venue non-existent now called, 'Willowbrook State School.' This was not really a school per se, but mostly a mental hospital and one that was closed down by a local senator years later because of the abuse discovered. It was a well known institution locally, and a place where 'society' placed people with various mental problems. i was 15 years old at the time, and will never forget the concert because of the reaction we received before, during and after performing. It helped mme decide to become a professional performer for the rest of mmy life. It was amazing to see the love, warmth, enthusiasm, and especially the healing that took place that day.
MMusicArt, Poetry and Social Consciousness Themes
Most recently i've been researching more and more articles, and a myriad of organisations found on the net, involving healing through mmusic. Multitudes of articles featuring stories of amazing people with wonderful ideas and hundreds of ways of using mmusically related solutions are available.
One may be amazed to ponder all the things MT people are discussing and by application are producing positive results worldwide. Examples of MT patients life stories being used by putting on an original Opera; MT guides cancer patients to create and perform etc...The list goes on forever. No matter how many stories or personal examples of MT one may read, this sameness presents itself. Similarly, if any mmusic person who wants to be a professional, or perhaps reach the top of that field, these same avenues of experiences occur. Learning ones craft under a guidance of teachers/universities etc... by working hard to put one's self out there in some sort of performance/recording/recital etc... It's a wonder if MT's or mmusic people see how our so called different professions are so closely related. The more research done, the more this becomes evident. Yes, as i've said even after being aware by reading all the technical/clinical things as well, where i'd imagine some MT's may think they're more like 'doctors' than mmusicians. Most certainly true to some extent, but it's amazing the similarities.
Reading articles about her work with MMusic Therapy and Peace, Edith Boxill is inspiring. Her legacy will live on through the work of MT & Peace and beyond. Personal works involve social consciousness subjects as well. Original poetry is included with designs concerning wars, (Helicopter Son's Sit, She Cried Until She Died, Love's Again ) alcoholism, (Cowboy Up!) homelessness, (Have You Ever Habitat?) as well as children's and other issues (Children of War, The XP Society, Hearing for the First Time, Does it Now?) are presented. Perhaps like many creative people, they're just part of what goghs through one's psyche in relation to art, social consciousness or life in general. It's an ever changing and interesting world we live in to say the least. Hopefully MT will play a larger part.
Summary
Most recently discovering Voices on the net, one may observe that on the whole, many of the articles accessed in Voices, though technically, clinically/medically discussed are familiar to us as happening all throughout the mmusic world. Many mmusicians would agree that these are things occurring every single day. Therefore, i'd propose that with technical/clinical and medical differences aside, our professions are not that different, but perhaps ONE in the same. Mr. Turry is a pianist. Not being very familiar with the MT world one would imagine that many MT's are accomplished mmusicians as well. Could this statement be disputed? In any case both worlds seem to agree with Michele Forinash as she so aptly put it in an article contributed to Voices titled, "I am grateful for music."
Primarily these mmusic-art designs are meant to be enjoyed. Hopefully some may have relevance and meaning or create thought to the world at large. As an artist/mmusician, perhaps like Cristo the artist, to facilitate community, mmusic painting projects i'll travel anywhere in the world to assist. Perhaps your community will be the next won?
A personal hope is that after viewing this work, one may have ideas in which these works can be applied internationally, especially in the field of mmusic therapy.
In conclusion i'd like to pass on a saying which translated from the language of the Maasai people means, (have a) ' Long life '...
References
Boxill, Edith. (2003) Developing the Use of Peaceful Non-violent Language through Music Therapy. Voices:Moderated Discussions - Music Therapy, Peace and War -- #1 Retrieved February 14, 2006 from http://voices.no/?q=content/music-therapy-peace-and-war
Boxill, Edith & Schieffelin Roberts, Cella (2003) Drumming Circle for Peace. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 14, 2006, from http://voices.no/?q=content/drumming-circle-peace
Ivannikova, Mariya A. (2004). Ukrainian Music Therapy - Does It Have a Chance to Exist?. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 13, 2006,
from https://normt.uib.no/index.php/voices/article/view/188/147
Ivannikova, Mariya A. (2005). Can Folk Music Instruments of Russia, Ukraine and Byelorussia be of Interest for Active Music Therapy? [Contribution to Moderated Discussions] Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 13, 2006,
from http://voices.no/?q=content/response-music-therapy-ukraine#comment-609
Turry, Alan. (2005) Music Psychotherapy and Community Music Therapy: Questions and Considerations, Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 11, 2006 from https://normt.uib.no/index.php/voices/article/view/208/152
Forinash, Michele (2004) I am Grateful for Music Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy. Retrieved February 11, 2006 from http://voices.no/?q=fortnightly-columns/2001-i-am-grateful-music
Acknowledgement
Thanks to MMusic Therapists worldwide, especially Mariya Ivannikova for feedback while writing this contribution and to Mr. Tor Olav Heldal for his response and interest as well as Voices in general for the many informative, inspirational articles. Thanks also to Mr.Yuji Igari MT, Mr. Andrew Stewart MT-BC as well as his associates.