Musicking in Early Intervention

Abstract

My interest in this subject stems from years of clinical work with handicapped children and an acquaintance with their parents/caretakers. The varying handicaps and developmental needs of these clients have called for varying theories and treatment approaches throughout their therapy processes. The effectiveness of music therapy procedures and the client's progress in music therapy has also varied. But what the handicapped children have had in common is a delight in music and musical expressiveness. In most cases they have been brought to music therapy by parents who have noticed their children's apparent interest in music. Their interest upon hearing music may have been expressed by spontaneous movements despite physical handicaps, spontaneous songlike utterances despite delayed speech, focused attention or other expressions while listening to music. Caretakers sensitive to their children's musical intelligence, and hoping for their optimal maximum obtainable development and well-being, sought the services of a music therapist, regardless of the way the children's interest was expressed interest.