Author: Roman Music Therapy

Returning to Services

Typically, September brings with it a flurry of work as we shore up new school contracts for service, reestablish ourselves in classrooms and get into the “back-to-school” groove. Just like so many in the community, this fall has looked a lot different for us. With just 15 school districts planning to fully reopen in mid-September, we already knew that our role in providing services to groups in schools or to children receiving services through their IEP’s would be different.  

This was further confirmed when the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) released their guidance around singing in classes. Though there is still debate over this topic, DESE has taken the position that singing increases viral spread and cannot be done indoors. While our music therapists have been conducting sessions remotely with great success, we have been thinking through the many ways we can still deliver in person services while using music safely.  

Getting Creative

Some of the ways in which our team can use music therapeutically without singing or having students sing are: 

• Drumming and instrument play: by having clients play instruments and facilitating interventions that allow for leadership and turn taking, we can help students work towards goals 
• Pre-recorded music: using recorded music allows music therapists and clients to experience the benefit of pre-composed songs while adhering to DESE guidelines 

• Non-singing interventions: song writing can help students and groups express feelings and create community while working on communication and verbal skills 

The last six months have taught many of us that adaptation and creativity is necessary. There are still people who need services, despite the limitations on what we can do. Roman Music Therapy Services is ready to meet the challenges of this fall and serve our clients to meet their goals!  

If you have a child or work in a school district and are interested in learning more about how music therapy can help, please contact us today. 

Dancing Queens and Kings of Rock Needed!

Join us this Friday for another Virtual Karaoke Party hosted by our music therapists on Zoom. The music begins at 6:30PM. Our team has a night full of fun, song and dance planned to help everyone get into a weekend groove! Sign up on our website to receive all of the Zoom sign in info.

Get Your Props Ready For Group Songs

Our team had a lot of fun putting together this song celebrating mask wearing. As we begin to become more mobile, as we think of sending our kids back to school, it’s even more important now to remember that wearing a mask can help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

We are pleased to honor the recipients of our July PALS recognition program. PALS (Partners, Advocates, Leaders, Supporters) was conceived as a way for our team at Roman Music Therapy Services to recognize the constituents, stakeholders, family members and community members who help us do our job every day. The populations with which we work often rely on the passion and advocacy of others, who go above and beyond in the fight to provide service and access to undeserved and vulnerable populations.

Howard Fineman, a SCORE Certified Business Mentor with the SCORE Association, was nominated by two of our team members, Michelle Dumas and Meredith Pizzi. They both highlighted his constant and invaluable mentorship. Howard is always available to offer support, to answer questions or to provide resources. While he began as Meredith’s mentor, the entire administrative team has felt the benefits of Howard’s expertise and support, especially during COVID-19.

Emily Lane, a Program Director at Neville Place, was nominated by Callie Hensler. Emily has been an invaluable ally during the transition to virtual sessions. Her proactive approach to keeping music therapy going for the memory care units, as well as her willingness to help during sessions are just a few reasons we are recognizing Emily this month!

Kathleen Sharp is a caregiver advocate nominated by Emily Hawley. Whether it is getting instruments or pushing for funding or joining in on the music making, Kathleen’s dedication elevates and enriches the work that we do.

Katherine Powell of Career Resources Corporation was nominated by AJ Gaudreau, and our final July PALS award recipient. Katherine’s constant communication amidst transitioning to virtual sessions, her initiative in helping residents make their own instruments, and her innovation at integrating more music into CRC’s programming are reasons why she has been recognized this month.

To all of our PALS recipients, thank you for the work you do and the difference you make!

The Search for Safe Content

It’s no doubt that the internet and digital technology have been utilized now more than ever as we all do more from home. Whether you are looking for entertainment, educational programs or skill development, a Google search or Facebook scan could send you down a rabbit hole of virtual offerings. Not to mention that vetting the long list of results takes up more time than any of us has right now.

Our music therapists have done the curating for you!

They have taken the various Aps and websites they already use with clients and searched out more relevant resources for our clients and constituents. These sheets are great resources for families, individuals and caretakers to reference when they are looking for safe and stimulating recreational and educational opportunities online. Many of the resources are free.

Our Approved Resource Sheets are broken out into age appropriate groups and by categories such as music, movement, connection, education, etc.

Here’s a sample of some of the suggestions you might find in these resources:

These resources will be available to anyone who signs up to receive our e-Newsletter. Sign up today!

Magical Musical Moments for Seniors

Summer is settling in and many of us are ready to find ways to introduce normalcy back into our lives. Whether it is gathering outside safely with our friends or family, or visiting a favorite beach or park, we are taking small steps toward meeting each other again. Nice weather and the ability to socialize provide so many mental health benefits for those lucky enough to come out of the isolation COVID-19 has imposed on our country and the world. Finally, this harsh winter is starting to thaw!

Unfortunately, those communities that remain vulnerable to the devastating effects of COVID-19 must remain diligent in their protection from infection.  This means that many of us are missing the most treasured members of our family: our parents, grandparents, older aunts and uncles. If a loved one is in a care facility, those responsible for their safety continue to operate under tight restrictions, making even a visit almost impossible. Continued isolation and loneliness can lead to cognitive decline. For those of us who have older adults in our lives, choosing between what is best for them physically over what might be best for them mentally is hard and heartbreaking.

No matter what your age is, the need for human connections remains strong. Despite all of the barriers, we have been exploring ways to bring families and loved ones together through the sharing of music, memories and joy. Our virtual services can create a safe entrance into the rooms of our loved ones during these challenging times.

                Opening doors to new possibilities and potential, through active and engaged music making experiences.

 

Benefits of Online Music Experiences

Making and actively listening to music can break up a quiet day for older adults living at home or in an assisted living facility. These activities can also have very real mental and physical health benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Promotes memory recall
• Decreases pain and discomfort
• Elevates mood and emotional state
• Increases creativity and self-expression

How Could I Be Involved

While making or listening to music alone also has benefits, the difference with music therapy is the personal connections forged and strengthened in sessions. Your presence and participation in virtual sessions with your elderly loved ones could provide opportunities for:

• Connection and socialization
• Reminiscing about meaningful songs and life events
• Sharing in musical experiences through singing, playing, or simply listening and relaxing
• Life review and sharing of family values and culture

Online musical connections facilitated by a music therapist can be simple, safe, social and sentimental!

• Simple: An individual or facility would need a video compatible device (tablet, iPad, laptop) and an internet connection while we take care of the rest
• Safe: Tablets and computers can be easily disinfected before and after sessions, making them accessible to a number of residents in one community
• Social: With new cases of COVID being reported each day, seniors have little opportunity to engage safely with others, even their own families
• Sentimental: Board Certified Music Therapists are specifically trained to foster connections through the very meaningful medium of music

Are you personally frustrated with brief, restrictive, outdoor visits?

Do you know someone missing a family member or friend?

Do you work in or with facilities that could take advantage of these services?

In an effort to reach and support the community, we are now offering a complimentary consultation call with one of our music therapists to discuss how music therapy can create new possibilities for connections with loved ones.

How can we be of service to YOU and those you love, or the families you work with? Let’s connect!

Weekly and Daily Summer Programs

We are excited to be offering Summer Clubs for Kids this July and August! Summer Clubs for Kids encompasses several different programs, depending on age level and frequency of meetings. All of our programs are virtual and many were built to foster independence in attendees, so that mom and dad at home can work while the kids make music!

If you are looking for a program that helps your child find community, create bonds with peers, foster independence and builds upon digital skills they’ve learned through remote school, then these programs are for your family.

Junior Explorer (ages 5 – 7) and Explorers (ages 8 – 10)

This week-long program will be a group theatre experience where each day has a different story for your child to tell! From a “Trip to the Beach,” to a “Voyage to Space,” Explorers will work together to create fantastic short stories using songwriting, dance, costumes, and instruments. This experience will run Monday through Thursday with two time options, 9AM – 10AM or 3PM – 4PM. The first week begins on June 29th, with additional weeks offered in July

Super Sprouts (ages 5 – 7)

This weekly class meets Wednesdays for 4 weeks and is a new addition to our Sprouting Melodies suite of early childhood classes. Whether you are a “graduate” of Sprouting Melodies, or checking it out for the first time, this class will engage your elementary schooler in a whole new way! We will continue to utilize familiar Sprouting Melodies songs and interventions while also incorporating basic music instruction. This integrated group will nurture leadership skills and support social and emotional interactions. We will spend time each week introducing adapted piano instruction to start learning the basic structures of music like rhythm, tempo, and dynamics. Children can use a keyboard or piano at home, easy to download apps on a phone or tablet, or play on a printed picture of keys to get started. 

Techies (ages 10 – 13)

Is your tween looking to perfect their musical tech game, then this is the class to sign up for! Each week we will deep dive into digital apps such as Garage Band, GrooveMaker, etc to create music with others. Use your own device to explore lots of new ways to compose, improvise, and record songs using your iPhone, iPod or iPad. Recommended apps will be shared in advance so that everyone is ready to rock! Come explore the world of digital music-making in this virtual space with us!

Music Therapy Club (ages 3 – 7 and 8 – 12)

Music Therapy Club is a unique musical place where all children can be free to create and join in music making that is specifically tailored to assure engagement, joy and success for all. The focus of this group centers on providing a supportive, facilitated atmosphere for children who need music experiences that take full advantage of individual strengths while minimizing the impact of difficulties.

Junior Explorer and Explorer Summer Series begins Monday, June 29th. Other programs begin July 11th. Register for all of our programs online!

When we plan events or programs, we always go into them hoping that the people who attend will have fun, receive some benefit and experience community. Anyone who has been to one of our live karaoke events knows they are lively! Our next karaoke was to be in May, honoring staff and caregivers, but then COVID-19 hit. Like the rest of the world, we adapted to this new normal. For us, that was transitioning to virtual music therapy sessions. As our staff and our clients grew more comfortable with the technology required, we revisited our karaoke event.

Karaoke Goes Virtual

Emily Hawley, Kim Schlesinger and AJ Gaudreau managed the virtual event on May 29th. Of her experience, Kim says “I was humbled to see people bravely share their favorite songs, rock out on some homemade instruments, show off their dance moves, and support one another. Throughout the evening, participants sent encouraging messages in the chat, unmuted their microphones to encourage performers, and applauded for everyone”.  At one point, 21 different accounts logged on through Zoom, participating in singing, cheering and grooving.

One attendee’s caregiver told us

The minute I mentioned Roman Music is having a Karaoke night J wanted to join in. He knew it would be on Zoom and I told him even if you wanted to just join in for an hour but he was on for the whole time and loved it. He posted pictures of himself on Facebook because he was so proud and had a great time. I’m grateful for these opportunities thru Music for J, especially at this time. It was a great night. 

Emily saw the event as a “beautiful display of community through music and shared experience”.  Thanking our caregivers remained the theme for the night and all participants joined together in creating a song to sing together. The night ended with the sharing of the completed, group song. 

The tragic murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and all of the egregious events of the past few weeks represent a critical culmination of centuries of injustice.

While our impulse is to act and speak out against these heinous acts and the systems which allow them to go unchecked, we recognize that it is more important to listen. The voices of those who have felt and lived the reality of racism, intolerance and inequity must be the ones we listen to as we look to help.

Seeking to uplift the work of Black, Indigenous, People of Color and white allies, and as a means of providing resources for our families and community partners, we encourage everyone to explore these resources and learn more about how we must all be a part of the movement toward an antiracist society.

• Anti-racism Resources
• EmbraceRace: Raising a Brave Generation 
• Coming Together: Standing Up To Racism – A CNN/Sesame Street Town Hall For Kids and Families
• Racism: Coverage and Context, WGBH – Videos on historical context, current information, and resources for all ages
• Resources of Everyday Anti-Oppressive Practices – Written by Canadian Music Therapists, Hayley Francis Cann, BMT, MTA, NMT and Priya Shah, RP, MTA, MMT

We are here. We are listening.

Have you participated in music therapy in the past but find the idea of virtual sessions intimidating? Has music therapy been suggested to you for a loved one but you aren’t sure how to navigate the virtual technology? If you said yes to either of these questions, you are not alone. Prior to the stay-at-home orders issued in  March and the closing down of in-person services, many folks had not had the opportunity to utilize web-based meeting applications like Zoom.

We are here to tell you that with a little set-up before hand, you can participate in virtual music therapy sessions too

Resources and Answers

If you have a scheduled music therapy session or just want more information, our team has compiled a robust list of frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot. Check out our Virtual Music Therapy FAQ’s page for help on everything from what to expect to how to participate. If the answer to your question isn’t here our team is available via email and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

If you are ready to schedule a session, contact us today!

Rethinking Engagement

Prior to March, we hadn’t envisioned providing music therapy sessions to our clients in a virtual capacity, but as the world rapidly changed, it became clear this was the direction we would need to go if we hoped to maintain connections with our clients. Aside from technology and logistic questions, our largest concern centered around service delivery, and how we would be able to interact with our clients through a device. What would engagement look like? How could we restructure goals to fit new needs? Would the use of an iPad or computer be too distracting for our clients? While we tried to brainstorm solutions to these questions and more, we knew we would just need to dive in and get virtual sessions going and work out the kinks as we went along.

We had to let music chart the course.

Almost two months into this new way of providing services, it is amazing how our clients and stakeholders have adapted. So many of our clients and families have embraced changing the way we conduct sessions, with lots of “magical musical moments” happening.

Rethinking Success

Kim Schlesinger, our intern who graduated in February and officially started her music therapy career amidst a pandemic, has had some amazing sessions with her clients. With one client in particular, she has seen increasing engagement as this person becomes more accustomed to seeing Kim on her computer screen. At the second session, Kim says that this client “called me by name and asked how I was doing, before making multiple song requests”.

The surprises kept coming throughout the session. “I began to strum an introduction and she immediately began to sing the first verse” Kim recounts. “I was floored by her ability to hold the tune, remember all of the lyrics, and sing to my guitar accompaniment as it came out of her speaker while I played from miles away in Illinois. This feat is even more impressive when you understand that she rarely sings independently, sometimes filling in lyrics I leave out or usually just singing along as I vocally lead.”

Our Lead Music Therapist, Maureen Young, had a sweet experience with respite yesterday during a virtual session with a 95-year old client. “I was completely unsure of how she would respond to the technology and if she would remember me” Maureen said. “However, it was truly touching to see her interacting as her usual self, with all the funny jokes, smiles, and sweet questions she asks. I’m sure that for the nursing staff at these facilities, being able to step away for a moment of respite, or to attend to others in need, is truly priceless. For this client, being able to connect with a familiar face, at a time when there is limited ability to connect with others, and she may be disoriented to time and place, is another example of respite.” Maureen also experienced respite for herself, interacting with her client and seeing her respond so well to the music.

While we never envisioned providing services virtually, our clients, stakeholders and families have been so receptive and resilient, it has made the transition that much more successful! We can’t wait to continue to make music with all of you!

While this is not the Sprouting Melodies experience that we all expected at the beginning of the session, we have seen so many different benefits that we didn’t even consider would come out of this. I wanted to give you an idea of what we’ve been noticing from our perspective.  

Extending the Family Bonds
We have seen so many new faces that go beyond your children! It has been such a joy seeing siblings, spouses, grandparents, and nannies that we haven’t met engage with the kiddos during the session. Especially with more people working from home, it’s been great to have working parents stop in, even for a few minutes to get setup and going!  One of the main goals we have for our Sprouting Melodies program is to create bonding opportunities and it’s been so special seeing that reach beyond the studio and into your homes.  

Creativity and Flexibility
Another great thing that we’ve been seeing is the creativity you all have! This new way of experiencing Sprouting Melodies has made everyone put their creative minds to work to find household items that can work as shakers, scarves, and drums. We’re really impressed with all the out-of-the-box thinking that’s going on, and our team is challenging ourselves to stay open to the new ideas this format allows for! Eliza shared the idea of using the screen to “disappear” and go out of view, and I tried this in our Friday class. It was so much fun and the kids thought it was so silly! There are so many benefits that can be derived from the flexibility we’ve had all to harness. While it’s under uncertain circumstances, this has been a great time to learn ways to apply the different ways to engage that you and your little ones are familiar with.  

Bringing the Outside World to You
This virtual format for Sprouting Melodies is our way of offering you and your kiddo a connection to the outside world. It’s so easy to feel isolated both physically and socially, but those 45 minutes are a chance to feel a semblance of normalcy and connect with friends who you wouldn’t get the opportunity to connect with otherwise. Our goal is to provide respite for you, whether that means looking forward to joining with your child in making music instead of worrying about house chores or the Coronavirus, or time that you can just let your guard down for a few minutes without worrying about what trouble your toddler might get into! 

Creating Routines
We can all build off this experience and use music as a tool to establish a new routine and sense of normalcy. Try things like singing songs that you know during transitions during the day or take some time to sing a familiar Sprouting Melodies song and really connect with each other. You could even try writing a song to help complete a task or do school work! 

Seeing Things Through Your Child’s Eyes
This is my geek-moment here! I have been leading Sprouting Melodies classes since the day I started the program in 2009, and I have always wished that parents would be able to see the facial expressions that I see when your babies are sitting on your laps and looking at me. Last week in our Sprouting Melodies classes for our littlest ones, I realized that parents with their babies on their lap can see the image on the screen of the baby responding to the music! When I pause or anticipate a musical phrase, or when a baby gets the musical joke for the first time, their expressions are truly delightful, and I’ve always wished that parents could see it too! Now you can! 

Want to try a class? We’d love to have you come see what it’s like for yourself!

Demo a Virtual Sprouting Melodies Class

A Secondary Epidemic

We are all connected in our shared experience right now: changing routines, isolating from friends and extended family, working from home and caring for children out of school. Many are anxious about the stability of their jobs, the hemorrhaging of their retirement funds, the health of older parents and the effects of all of this disruption on their young children. As uncertain and disjointed our lives are right now, the upheaval of normal routines is being felt even more acutely by some of the more vulnerable members of our communities.

Seniors, already susceptible to loneliness, are not allowed visitors in their nursing homes, and many facilities have discontinued gathering together in common areas. Isolated in their rooms, these folks are now without the emotional support of their larger community or the comfort of their routine activities.

Similarly, adults and children with disabilities have also seen a disruption to their daily lives, and the support they receive, as day programs suspend services, schools close, jobs are paused and socialization programs are discontinued. As jarring as all of these changes are to the rest of the community, it is multiplied for individuals with special needs, and the families trying to support them.

During this time, physical distancing does not have to mean social distancing. While it is important to create physical space between all of us to stop the spread of COVID-19, we need to maintain social connections however we can. Music can help facilitate and build upon those connections and provide a way to strengthen bonds even during this time of physical distancing.

What a Difference a Week Makes

Last Monday, the management team at Roman Music Therapy Services met in the office for what would be the last time, face to face, for the foreseeable future. By that time, many schools in Massachusetts had already made the decision to close for two weeks, some for more. Many of our senior clients in nursing homes were not allowed any outside visitors and we had made the decision to conduct our Sprouting Melodies early education music programs remotely. At this time last week, things looked a little scary in the short-term, as they probably did for many of you.

As a team, we spent much of the time collaborating and still engaging in the music whenever we could, and strategizing how Roman Music Therapy Services could truly be of service to our clients and the larger community. Virtual music therapy was not something we had done before, but we realized that it was the perfect way for us to provide our clients with the reassurance of a familiar face, and the routine of an enjoyed therapeutic intervention.

Our virtual music therapy sessions can:

· Provide a sense of social and emotional connection

· Decrease feelings of isolation and loneliness

· Promote reciprocal social interactions on both sides of the camera

· Share familiar and comforting music which can provide grounding in a time of uncertainty

· Give primary caregivers a short respite from having to be “on” in caregiver mode all the time

· Provide a scheduled activity to look forward to on the calendar

Virtual Music Therapy in Your Home

Roman Music Therapy Services is equipped and ready to deliver music therapy services to our clients, established and new, virtually. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer and we can walk you through the rest! If you’re looking for something particular or trying to solve a unique challenge, let us know. We love to brainstorm and would be happy to try to create new solutions with you.

Visit our website or contact us to learn more about what we can do for you or your group.

Friday, March 13, 2020

Over the past few days, we have been closely following the recommendations from the CDC and the Department of Public Health in Massachusetts. We know it’s been a crazy week for everyone, and given the school cancellation for tomorrow, we figured it would be good to try something a little bit different for our classes. Think of it as a way to keep to your normal schedule, connect with friends in your community without the risks, and following the regular routine at a time when we all need that consistency.

We are inviting our Friday Sprouting Melodies Families to join us
for Virtual Sprouting Melodies Classes!

Please look in your email for an invitation to our private class during your regularly scheduled time.  This is not a class that it open to the public! It is just for our enrolled families to continue to make special music time a priority for your family, while minimizing any risk for our little ones, parents, grandparents and caregivers. With many area school districts closed, we know some of you may have older children home with you as well.  Everyone is welcome to join us! Find a cozy spot in your house and let’s get ready to make some music together!

Starting this Saturday, we enter what we affectionately refer to at Roman Music Therapy as “Conference Season”. The Federation of Children with Special Needs in Boston on February 29^th kicks off three months of tabling at various conferences that are either geared toward the populations that we work with, or are professional music therapy conferences.

The Federation of Children with Special Needs “provides information, support, and assistance to parents of children with disabilities, their professional partners, and their communities”. Their conference on the 29^th, “Visions of Community”, will be from 7:30am to 4:15pm at the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston. With workshops focusing on assistive technology, autism, IEP goal setting, self-care, and transition planning, just to name a few, it is a conference that always provides relevant and timely information to families and professionals working with special needs children. Come by our table and find out how music therapy can help you or your child!

A week after the Federation Conference, Meredith will be flying out to Chicago to attend the Great Lakes Regional Music Therapy Conference, which runs March 4 – 7, 2020. There she will be presenting a CMTE on Financial Management, Building Your Music Therapy Dream Team with fellow music therapy business owner Erin Spring, Successfully Scaling Your Dream Business with music therapy business owners Erin Flores and Christina Wood and Keys to a Successful Community Based Early Childhood Program with co-found of Sprouting Melodies, Beth Schwartz. If you are a music therapist or music therapy student attending this conference, be sure to check out one of these presentations or stop by our table in the exhibit hall to learn about upcoming retreats, coaching and internship opportunities.

March 19 – 21, 2020 are the dates for the Mid-Atlantic Regional Music Therapy Conference in Maryland. There, Meredith will be presenting a CMTE on Financial Management, as well as a concurrent on Giftedness with Bronwen Landless.

Roman Music Therapy Services’ Eliza Trickett, MT-BC and Jenni Chute, MT-BC, will attend the Mass Down Syndrome Congress Conference at the DCU Center in Worcester on March 28^th. The theme for this conference is “Trailblazers”, and the key note speaker will be Zack Gottsagen of the 2019 hit movie Peanut Butter Falcon. The conference will spotlight research, as well as provide families with tools for communication, collaboration, advocacy, and education.

In April, members of our team will be attending the North Eastern Regional Music Therapy Conference in Stowe, Vermont.

The Massachusetts Early Intervention Consortium Conference at the Best Western in Marlborough on May 4 & 5^th culminates this whirlwind season of advocacy, education and ambassadorship. Meredith will be presenting “Music is Developmental” in the afternoon session. The key note speaker for this conference is Emily Perl Kingsley, who has been a writer for Sesame Street for the last 45 years. As a parent of a son with Down syndrome, she speaks about living through the “dark ages”, when professionals advocated for institutionalization rather than support. We have worked with many early intervention professionals in the area as they refer their clients to our Sprouting Melodies program in Wakefield. We hope to see some of them, and you, at the conference!

Music and Trauma

Those familiar with the benefits and applications of music therapy typically understand how music can help with learning disabilities, cognitive decline and early intervention. Perhaps not so obvious is the role music can play in the treatment of trauma and clients suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD).

When music is introduced as a form of treatment for PTSD and trauma related illnesses, both physiological and psychological benefits are possible. A music therapist can use music to help mitigate physical symptoms related to trauma, such as blood pressure levels, heart rate and muscle tension. Psychological symptoms that can be influenced by music include anxiety, irritability, isolation and flashbacks.

The safe and therapeutic environment that a music therapist can provide while in a session allows clients to process past trauma by empowering individuals with a sense of control. Through the music, individuals can express feelings and vulnerabilities. Activities such as music making and listening, improvisation, lyric analysis, music-assisted relaxation and songwriting can be done in either an individual session or within a group setting.

Because trauma can occur throughout the lifespan and can be experienced through a variety of different ways, individuals who sustain trauma are a diverse population. From premature infants in the NICU, to veterans, to serving the community in the aftermath of a violent event or crisis, music therapy can be used in a variety of treatment settings.

Goals are individualized but all are designed to be supportive and therapeutic, and will involve live and recorded music. Some of the most common goals are to reduce anxiety or isolation, improve overall mood, increase relaxation, develop coping skills and increase sense of control, to name a few.

If you have experienced trauma, or work with individuals  experiencing PTSD, and would like to learn more about how music can help, please contact our office and speak to someone today.

Taking a New Approach With Bridgewell Day Programs

Recently, we had the opportunity to develop new programming for an established client. This is always an exciting endeavor, as it allowed us to build upon strong relationships and reinvigorate our staff as we continue to tailor our programs to meet the needs of those we serve. Our music therapists have been providing group music therapy to Bridgewell’s residential homes since 2012. In a bid to bring music to the participants of their day programs, Bridgewell worked with us to create a menu of programs that would enhance the community culture that is central to the Bridgewell experience.

The new model of service delivery consists of a thematic focus determined by one of our music therapists and staff. Registered participants have opportunities to build on goals and demonstrate progress throughout the six week series. At the end, there is the opportunity to share their work through a demonstration or performance for the entire day program community through a Universal Music Therapy Event. Unlike other models, we have also built staff-training into the series so that everyone knows how to support participants.

Laetitia Brundage, MT-BC, and Maureen Young, MT-BC, are the therapists working with these groups. Some examples of the themes their groups have been working on are: Disney songs with a therapeutic twist, memory care, songwriting to improve activities of daily living, exploration of different music genres and using movement, instrument play, and singing to improve peer-to-peer interactions. Both therapists have seen an increase in confidence and comfort within their groups. Laetitia points out that her group “demonstrated pride and confidence in their songwriting, and included contributions from every member, including one who is nonverbal”.

Maureen has noted that “the most wonderful moments that I’ve seen definitely involve facilitating experiences that allow for meaningful interactions between group members and staff.  These groups really increase the mood and joy of both group members and staff. Group members are also given the opportunity to be leaders in a supportive and inclusive environment. It is wonderful to see individuals of a variety of abilities participating in a group setting together, as they are all able to access music in their own way”.

The inclusion of staff development into the program has encouraged the staff to be more present and participatory in these group experiences. By training the staff of the Bridgewell Day Programs on how they can help support the music, we are empowering the staff to make meaningful contributions to the participants’ therapeutic experience. The staff members working with Laetitia’s groups really responded to being asked for their input. They gave pointers, helped Laetitia know each person better and even reported benefits for themselves.

Maureen has observed that since collaborating with the staff at her programs, they seem to have a better understanding of what to expect during session and what their role is, in terms of stepping in and getting involved. Maureen says that “The staff has really seemed to start taking ownership of the music and feeling more comfortable using it as a tool on their own”.

This fall we are venturing into new pilot program in partnership with the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction. Teaming up with a Massachusetts based non-profit, Rawkstars, we are bringing music to 35 young men living within the PACT (People Achieving Change Together) Unit, a specialized program for incarcerated individuals between the ages of 18 and 24.

Rawkstars was founded by Jonathan (JJ) Jacobs, a musician and sound engineer who wanted to provide music opportunities for Massachusetts youth who would otherwise not have access. Whether it is supplying instruments, initiating programs, or in our case, connecting us with the population at the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction, Rawkstars has made a mission out of connecting people through music. It is a vision that aligns serendipitously with ours, so when JJ contacted us with a potential partnership, we were eager to sign on.

PACT is a new initiative, currently in its second year, for individuals  who are 18 – 24 yrs old and currently incarcerated at the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction. Living in this unit is voluntary and requires an application process. Young men who join the program are paired with a mentor, and participate in intensive programming specifically designed for this population. The goal of the PACT unit is to focus on rehabilitation and the development of social skills that can help participants once they have served their sentences. On the unit, there is more freedom, with cells open from 7:30am to 9pm. Classes focus on life skills such as budgeting, meditation and mindfulness. There is an emphasis on positive officer and participant relations, interactions and respect, which gives the unit a more relaxed feel.

The goal of the music program with the inmates will be to develop life effectiveness skills, which include, but are not limited to, time management, social competence, task leadership, and emotional control using music-based programming in order to determine if inmates’ actions, behaviors or feelings shift in ways to make them more successful in managing and succeeding in daily life. Attendance is voluntary, but inmates will be encouraged to choose at least one program to attend each week. The programming will include large group drum circles, smaller groups that may include Songwriting, Lyric Analysis, Singing, Recreative Music Experiences, Improvisation, Active Music Listening, Music and Digital Technology, Music and Imagery, and Music Assisted Relaxation. There is also a music education component provided through Rawkstars that will be teaching other music skills to the participants. A final showcase/performance will be held at the end of the 12-week pilot program with staff, participants and their families.

Bringing music therapy to new populations is something that we are passionate about at Roman Music Therapy Services. We are really excited about this new program and collaboration with Rawkstars and the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction.. We look forward to celebrating creativity, self-expression and music in this environment to support the rehabilitative model of the PACT Program.

For more information about Rawkstars or to donate to support the work of this amazing non-profit, please visit their website.

For more information about the PACT Program, check out this video clip from WGBH.

The start of November brings with it a ritual to the office as we get ready, not for the holidays, but for the annual American Music Therapy Conference. This year’s conference, entitled Innovate! Integrate! Motivate! will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota from November 21^st-November 24^th.  For students, experienced music therapists or brand new professionals, conference is the time to meet with colleagues from all over the country.

We truly believe in the value of sharing ideas, opportunities, interventions and skills with the music therapy community during conference. Each year, a cohort from Roman Music Therapy Services attends to network, present and connect with the music therapy community. This year, Executive Director and Founder, Meredith Pizzi, will be providing a Financial Management CMTE (Continuing Music Therapy Education) course, as well as co-facilitating a CMTE with fellow music therapist Elizabeth Schwartz, entitled Musicking Across the Life Span: Understanding Music Throughout Human Development. Meredith and Beth will also be presenting a concurrent on building community through music therapy. Music Therapy Business Owners (MTBO’s) will also find Meredith leading the MTBO Task Force Meeting to share the work of the Business Owners Task Force with business owners around the country.

In addition to courses, Laetitia Brundage, our Intern Director and Lead Music Therapist, will be talking about the internship opportunities at Roman Music Therapy Services, during the internship fair on Saturday, November 23^rd. Stop by our table if you are a music therapy student looking for a training experience that will do far more for you, personally and professionally, than just meet the internship requirement!

Roman Music Therapy Services will also have a table in the Exhibitor Hall, with information about upcoming retreats we have planned for 2020 & 2021, business coaching opportunities, and raffles.

If you’re at conference next week, be sure to stop by our table and say hello!

You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart. -John Ford 

There is something about hearing a powerful public speaker. One who can transform your position or understanding of a situation, event or topic with what they have to say. The best speakers have left a lasting impression on me.  I remember the rooms I was in, the the tone of the speaker’s voice, and the way that my entire body and brain was captivated by their words, and the way in which they spoke them.

As a college student, I attended the 9th World Congress of Music Therapy Conference in 1999 and had the privilege of hearing Lorin Hollander speak. Mr. Hollander was a child prodigy who has gone on to be one of the most recognized piano performers in the world. His lecture, which he beautifully interlaced with piano music, absolutely changed my trajectory and affirmed my decision to be a music therapist. I was so moved by his presentation that I came back and transcribed the entire lecture to share it with the classmates in my music education program.

In 2012, when Brene Brown was still awaiting publication of her second book, Daring Greatly, I had the opportunity to hear her speak at the Massachusetts Conference for Women. Hearing her words and seeing her powerful and vulnerable stage presence absolutely convinced me of the transformative power of seeing a speaker and having your entire world turned upside down!

There is something about the power of public speaking that has always captivated me, and as my career has unfolded, I have been humbled to speak on many stages. I love weaving music into my presentations the way that Lorin Hollander did so brilliantly. I try to get people to share in making music to bring a group together and to prepare them for learning and growing.

I always try to remember the potential that comes from public speaking, not just for sharing ideas, but for opening minds to new ways of thinking and changing lives. Our mission is clear, Making Music –  Transforming Lives, and whether we are doing it from a chair in a music therapy session, or from a stage at a conference or event, the potential for music, words and presence still thrill me.

-Meredith Pizzi, MPA, MT-BC

Learn more about where our therapists have spoken, or how to contact us to speak at an event.

-photos used with permission

This fall, our Founder and Executive Director, Meredith Pizzi,  MPA, MT-BC, is thrilled to be teaching Music Therapy Business Development course at Alverno College. This online graduate music therapy course is specifically designed to support Music Therapists and is fully aligned with our work at Roman Music Therapy Services around Business Coaching and Clinical Supervision.

This course will focus on advanced competencies in Clinical Administration and Practice Development. Watch this short video to learn more about the 3 week or full semester options for the course!

Read more about the CMTE offerings and Certificate in Music Therapy Entrepreneurship at Alverno.

Ready to jump in and go for the Master’s in Music Therapy at Alverno College? Apply Today!

If you have any questions about this course,  please reach out to Meredith at her Alverno email address: pizzimr@alverno.edu

Or if you want to learn more about the program and CMTE’s, connect with Becky Engen, Ph.D., MT-BC, Director of Graduate Music Therapy at Alverno College at becky.engen@alverno.edu.

Music Therapist Getaway Weekend

Being a music therapist can be lonely and isolating, but it doesn’t have to be! Come join other music therapists who are also working to find the perfect balance as we gather in the Berkshires for the weekend you’ve been dreaming of. This getaway will focus on self-care and how making the time for yourself can reinvigorate your practice.

Why You Should Be Here

1. Develop valuable connections with like-minded, creative, music therapists that will help support you in your journey.
2. This experience cannot be imitated! From the activities we have planned to the magic that will happen in this particular group, this is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
3. Experience professional music therapy supervision with Music Therapists and earn 20 CMTE credits, plus 20 Ethics credits.
4. Share some creativity with yourself! The focus on self-care and continuing education in this weekend can help keep the passion flowing for your work and your career in music therapy.
5. You Deserve this! Between the gorgeous retreat accommodations, the spectacular scenery, the fabulous meals and the time and space to invest in you, this place will fill you so you can keep giving to others.

Don’t Wait to Do This for Yourself

Sign up before August 10^th to receive Early Bird pricing. Both of our packages include accommodations, activities, meals and coursework. Learn more online, register or call the office, 781-224-3300, to speak with a team member.

Join us for a night of all things Ukulele!

In partnership with the Department of Developmental Services and the Ukulele Kid’s Club, we will be hosting a night devoted to the instrument with the fun name on Thursday, May 16th. The night starts at 7PM in our Wakefield location.  We will start with an intro and history of the ukulele before breaking into performance, 3 chord song lessons and group playing.

No experience is necessary!

BYO ukulele. We will have a few instruments on hand to borrow. Bring your own, or order one through us. There are two options for ordering:

1. Order through the Ukulele Kid’s Club vendor. Uke’s are $89.99 and one ukulele is donated to a child in the hospital for every uke bought
2. Order through us. Email jen@romanmusictherapy.com. Our ukulele’s run from $55-$65. Order by May 1st to ensure there arrival and pre-tuning.

Have you wondered what happens at a drum circle event?

Perhaps you’ve seen a flyer for one of our upcoming drum circle events and despite being curious have never signed up because you aren’t sure what to expect. That’s understandable, considering many of us may have some preconceived  ideas about what participating in a drum circle entails. 

Our drum circle+ events are facilitated by one (or more, depending on the crowd) Board Certified Music Therapists. Just the act of drumming provides some amazing benefits, such as stress reduction, improved physical health and wellness and increased brain function. Not only that, but it is a way to have fun and build community!

Do I need experience or to bring my own drum?

No! We will supply the drums, all you need to bring is your enthusiasm. The music therapists facilitating the event will guide the members of the drum circle into different rhythms, building on the energy of the group. They may start you off with a simple, repetitive beat, asking you to play louder or softer. Once everyone is warmed up, they may introduce a mandala: when one person starts off and his or her neighbor joins in, and then the next, until the entire circle joins in, or they may let someone else take over the lead.

If you still have questions, Meredith Pizzi, MPA, MT-BC, the Founder and Executive Director of Roman Music Therapy Services, explains what to expect.

And if you have any questions, do not hesitate to call the office. We will be hosting our next drum circle at Onset School of Music on Saturday, May 5th, from 2pm to 3pm! 

Preregistration is required by either calling our office, 781-224-3300, or online!

If you haven’t participated in one of our karaoke night’s you have been missing out on a night of fun! There is still time to register. Just $5 per individual or $10 per family. Register online or by calling the office at 781-224-3300.

Karaoke and Open Mic Night!

Do you frequent karaoke nights around town or have you ever dreamed of signing on stage but haven’t found the right venue? Well, Roman Music Therapy Services has your answer for a night of fun, community and music!

Join us on October 13th from 6:30pm – 8:00pm at Onset School of Music in Wakefield. There you will be able to perform your favorite songs on stage, with a professional sound system and lighting! Invite your friends and family to cheer you on. Not ready to perform solo? You’ll still have a great time listening to our karaoke line up, trying your hand at one of our raffles, and enjoying a light refreshment.

Committed to providing quality, fun, integrated music experiences for our clients and community, we hope you join us on Friday, October 13th for what is sure to be a great night!

Register now to save your spot!

Summer is  (almost) here!

If you are a parent you might be wondering, as I find myself doing right now, which is a busier month, December or June?! Between end of school year events, field days, graduations, dance recitals, gymnastics meets, last day of school parties, etc it can feel as though there is a commitment every day!

When life gets especially hectic with obligations, it always helps to have a little fun, either scheduled or spontaneous! Roman Music Therapy Services has some great things planned, some of which are free!

Dancing and Singing all summer long!

BABY/TODDLER FLASH MOB, Friday, June 16th at 11:30am (near the Gazebo)

A few years ago we held a very successful Sprouting Melodies flash mob near the lake in Melrose. Now we are taking the music, and the dancing, to Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield! Join us for some fun tunes, fresh air and feisty baby dancing! Pack some food and a blanket and feel free to stay after the music ends for a picnic!

BLANKETS AND BASKETS EVENT AT MELROSE PUBLIC LIBRARY, Tuesday, June 27th @ 6pm

This is a very popular series that the library puts on, and Roman Music Therapy Services is happy to be a part of it on the 27th. Held on the lawn near the library, families often bring a picnic dinner and come a little early before the music begins.

MUSICAL MEET UP FOR NEW MOMS AND DADS, Monday, July 3 @ noon

If you, or someone you know, is a new mom or dad, this is a great, FREE monthly meet up. Get out of the house with your new little one and meet other parents and caregivers!

LUNCH AND CRAFTS, Friday, July 7, 11:00am-noon

Join us for another fun craft and pizza lunch! We will make tambourines to take home and then have pizza! Sign up today to reserve your spot! We need at least 5 kiddos signed up to run this event so sign up early. Cost will be $10 per child or $15 for a family. (there are no Sprouting Melodies classes this week due to July 4th)

ENROLL IN BOTH SUMMER SESSIONS 1 & 2 AND RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR ENROLLMENT!

Both sessions are 4 weeks long to accommodate for people’s fluctuating schedules during the summer, but if you know you are going to be around, then enrolling in both at the same time will save you money! (use coupon code summer2017) And the first 8 enrollments for any summer session will receive a free Sprouting Melodies T-shirt!

The History of Music Therapy in Military Populations

The history of using music therapy to help post-combat veterans dates back to the days after World War I, when community musicians performed in military hospitals for wounded servicemen. Doctors and nurses noticed that their patients responded positively to the music. During the last years of World War II, it became evident that these hospital musicians needed special training, thus the first music therapy degree was created.

In 1945, the U.S. War Department developed a program using music to recondition service members recuperating in Army hospitals. In this program, music was used in several therapeutic settings, including recreation, education, occupational therapy and physical reconditioning. This early use of music as a support of multiple therapies for military populations helped the music therapy profession grow. It developed further with research endorsed by the Army.

How Can Music Therapy Help Veterans and Their Families?

Veterans of recent wars face post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, major depression and polytrauma, not to mention substance abuse, family conflict and suicide. Music therapy can be a valuable part of a treatment plan for post-combat veterans and their families, offering another tool in supporting a service member’s recovery. Interventions can include improving coping skills, offering relief from pain perception and reducing stress associated with traumatic experiences.

Music is used with military populations in various ways, including drum circles, writing original music and engaging with a music therapists individually or in a group setting. Music therapy interventions often address multiple goals, such as awareness of mind/body connections, identifying feelings and emotions, physical discomfort/pain, attention, executive functioning and non-verbal means of expressing thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Interactive music experiences, music-based workshops, or incorporating music therapy into established support groups are just a number of ways music therapy can support veterans or active service members’ families. Shared music making between family members and their service members also allows everyone to engage in an activity that can be fun and positive.

One of our music therapists, Laetitia Brundage, had the invaluable experience of working with the veteran population for a few months last summer as a part of the Home Base program, a two week intensive clinical program run by MGH. Laetitia incorporated a drum circle to the opening night, kicking off the program every two weeks for new participants.

If you or a family member is a veteran or active service member interested in music therapy, please contact us.