Reflections on Working with a String Quartet in Aesthetic Music Therapy

Abstract

Aesthetic Music Therapy (AeMT) is a music centred approach to clinical practice. This essay describes the beginning experiences of sessions with a professional string quartet. Using clinical improvisation the therapist and quartet explored inter-musical and inter-personal relationships. Questioning the importance of musical quality in clinical improvisation this paper proceeds to examine the parameters of clinical practice with musicians. Through the therapist's reflections on the inspirational aspects of sessions, questions are raised for future work and research.