Whose "Power of Music"? Questioning and Problematizing aspects of Language and Power in Music Therapy Practice within Mainstream Primary Schools in the UK

Authors

  • Joanna Parsons Nordoff Robbins/Goldsmiths, University of London, UK

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v22i3.3406

Keywords:

mainstream education, language, power, music therapy

Abstract

Music therapists have long worked in specialist and mainstream school settings and their practice, therefore, has been influenced by discourse used in both education and therapy. Parts of the discourse from both fields tends to pathologize children and focus on individual problems and treatment. In the same space, critical frameworks seek to challenge this by advocating for language and practice that is inclusive and context sensitive. By focusing on the complex nature of a mainstream setting, this article will highlight how music therapy practice might serve to strengthen or challenge deficit-based discourse around children within their school environments. I propose that, within school communities, there is much to be learned from paying closer attention to people's voices and expertise regarding their own practices and knowledge of both music and health. By illustrating day-to-day school life, I reflect on how particular approaches, choices of language and practice might impact how music is experienced and how this relates to health and wellbeing. 

Author Biography

Joanna Parsons, Nordoff Robbins/Goldsmiths, University of London, UK

Jo completed her Masters of Music Therapy at Wilfrid University before moving to England and starting her current work as a staff member in a mainstream primary school. She is a PhD candidate at Nordoff Robbins/Goldsmiths, University of London and her thesis focuses on school’s music ecologies and the practices therein. Jo’s specific interests involve locally-inspired research methods and working with people’s own expertise in music and health. She is also co-editor of the journal, Music and Arts in Action.

Photo of author Joanna Parsons

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Published

2022-11-01

How to Cite

Parsons, J. (2022). Whose "Power of Music"? Questioning and Problematizing aspects of Language and Power in Music Therapy Practice within Mainstream Primary Schools in the UK. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy, 22(3). https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v22i3.3406