One Size Fits All, or What is Music Therapy Theory For?

Abstract

In this writing I explore theory in music therapy opinion, discourse, research and practice. To this end, I define theory and examine factors impinging on music therapy theory and the exchange of information within and beyond music therapy. I contend that we all have theories and that these ideologies-including beliefs, goals and ways of knowing music, music therapy and ourselves-must be shared. I question whether a grand, general theory for music therapy is possible. And I conclude that rather than striving for one grand theory of music therapy, music therapy theories must enable us to remain open to ambiguity and the multiplicity of meanings inherent in music and life.