Singapore is witnessing a surge in interest and recognition for music therapy, a clinical profession using music to enhance well-being. A new postgraduate program at Lasalle College of the Arts marks a significant step in making this therapy more accessible.
The two-year program addresses the growing demand for trained music therapists, with a diverse student body. This initiative allows local students to study without the financial burden of overseas education, while also adapting training to the unique cultural context of Singapore.
Music therapy is used in various settings, including palliative care, dementia care, and early childhood intervention. The Association for Music Therapy in Singapore (AMTS) has been active since 2007 and continues to grow.
Music therapy provides physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits. It can unlock emotions and facilitate expression, especially in a society where confronting difficult feelings can be challenging. The profession is advocating for formal recognition within the allied health sector to expand access to patient subsidies and funding.
As Dr. Tan of AMTS notes, "Music is powerful. We can use music for all these benefits, but flip the coin - because music is powerful, you can also do harm." Music therapists require specialized training to assess each individual's emotional and psychological landscape.