A penguin on the moon: Self-organizational processes in improvisational music therapy in neurological rehabilitation

Abstract

This article investigates improvisational music therapy in neurological rehabilitation with the intention of developing a theoretical frame for this music therapy method. Indications found in the literature, two case vignettes from the author’s clinical practice, and concepts from systems theory are integrated and discussed in a descriptive-narrative approach. The article suggests improvisational music therapy as an autopoietic, dynamic system with seven specific components facilitating self-organizational processes of the individuals involved. These components capture both the complexity and the specific features of improvisational music therapy in neurological rehabilitation. In addition they provide criteria for the application, implementation, as well as for the documentation and evaluation of therapeutic improvisations. Finally, implications for the conceptualization of clinical music therapy practice and research are presented and discussed.

Keywords:

• improvisational music therapy
• neurological rehabilitation
• autopoiesis
• self-organization
• viability

Notes

1. The names of both clients were changed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Wolfgang Schmid

Wolfgang Schmid, Dr. rer. medic., is Associate Professor at the Grieg Academy (GAMUT), University of Bergen. He completed his music studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz in Munich followed by post-graduate studies in Music Therapy at the University of Witten/Herdecke (Germany). From 1996–2008 he was a lecturer in the music therapy training course (MA) at the University of Witten/Herdecke combining music therapy practice, research and lecturing. From 2010–2011 he held a research position at the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Witten. His experiences as a music therapy practitioner in clinical and outpatient settings cover a wide range of areas, e.g. music therapy in neurology, and in childrens- and adolescent psychiatry. In 2005 he completed his dissertation on improvisational music therapy in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.